Alpine's A390 marks a new chapter for Alpine as the brand's first 100% electric sport fastback. Designed to compete in the high-performance EV market, the A390 showcases Alpine's commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with a driver-focused experience. With an emphasis on agility and handling, the A390 retains the brand's racing heritage while embracing a sustainable future. Its development phase has seen rigorous testing in various environments to ensure reliability, durability, and performance that enthusiasts expect. One of the most demanding phases was the testing in the Arctic Circle, where the A390 was pushed to its limits in some of the most extreme conditions on the planet.
Arctic Testing: Ensuring Durability
In Swedish Lapland, an area known for its severe winter conditions, the Alpine A390 underwent testing at temperatures plunging to -40°F. This region, with its icy roads and snow-laden terrain, provides an ideal setting to evaluate the resilience and robustness of electric powertrains. The Arctic testing phase was designed to simulate five years of accelerated wear and tear within a few months. Engineers focused on multiple aspects, including:
- Battery efficiency and thermal management: Ensuring the A390’s battery can maintain performance and range despite the cold.
- Grip and stability: Testing specialized Michelin tires developed to provide traction on ice and snow.
- Climate control systems: Evaluating the efficiency of heating, demisting, and defrosting to maintain visibility and comfort. By exposing the A390 to these challenges, Alpine aims to guarantee that the vehicle will perform reliably, whether navigating alpine passes or urban streets during winter.
Dynamic Performance: Alpine's Signature Agility
The A390 is engineered to deliver a driving experience that is both thrilling and precise. Central to this is its three-motor electric powertrain, which offers a unique combination of power and control:
- Total Power Output: Expected to exceed 500 horsepower, enabling rapid acceleration.
- Torque Vectoring: The Alpine Active Torque Vectoring system dynamically adjusts power to each wheel for optimal cornering grip and stability.
- Five Distinct Driving Modes:
- Eco Mode: Prioritizes range and efficiency.
- Comfort Mode: Balances performance with smoothness for daily driving.
- Sport Mode: Enhances throttle response and steering precision.
- Track Mode: A new addition designed to deliver maximum performance with more aggressive settings for suspension and power delivery.
- Snow Mode: Tailored for low-traction surfaces, adjusting throttle sensitivity and braking. By refining these systems in the Arctic conditions, Alpine ensures that the A390 remains composed and responsive, whether on icy roads or the racetrack.
Design and Dimensions: Sporty Yet Practical
The A390’s design blends aerodynamic efficiency with Alpine’s signature styling cues. Its dimensions make it a versatile choice for those seeking a sporty yet practical EV:
- Length: 4,615 mm
- Width: 1,885 mm
- Height: 1,532 mm
- Wheelbase: Extended to 2,760 mm for improved stability and cabin space. Aerodynamic Features:
- Active Rear Spoiler: Adjusts based on speed to balance downforce and efficiency.
- Bonnet Blade and Grille: Inspired by motorsport, these features reduce drag while improving cooling for the electric powertrain.
- Lighting Signature: Utilizes "Cosmic Dust" LED elements that are not just visually striking but also improve visibility in low-light conditions. The exterior also incorporates lightweight materials, including aluminum and carbon fiber elements, to keep the curb weight low, enhancing agility and efficiency.
Interior Features: Driver-Centric Controls
The A390’s cabin is designed with a focus on the driver, combining minimalist aesthetics with high-tech interfaces:
- Steering Wheel: Wrapped in Nappa leather with a flattened center inspired by Formula 1. Integrated controls for Overtake (OV), Recharge (RCH), and various driving modes allow the driver to switch settings without distraction.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: Features customizable displays for speed, battery status, and power distribution.
- Infotainment System: Developed in partnership with Google, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.
- Sound System: Premium audio by Devialet, with spatial audio technology designed to deliver an immersive listening experience. This setup ensures that the A390’s interior is both intuitive and engaging for enthusiasts.
Comparison with Market Rivals
In the highly competitive electric sport fastback segment, the A390 faces tough competition from the Tesla Model Y Performance, Porsche Macan EV, Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW iX3, and the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT. Here’s an expanded comparison:
| Feature | Alpine A390 | Tesla Model Y Performance | Porsche Macan EV | Audi Q6 e-tron | BMW iX3 | Ford Mustang Mach-E GT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,615 mm | 4,750 mm | 4,739 mm | 4,915 mm | 4,734 mm | 4,724 mm |
| Width | 1,885 mm | 1,921 mm | 1,922 mm | 1,937 mm | 1,891 mm | 1,882 mm |
| Height | 1,532 mm | 1,624 mm | 1,624 mm | 1,648 mm | 1,668 mm | 1,623 mm |
| Powertrain | Tri-motor | Dual-motor | Dual-motor | Dual-motor | Single-motor | Dual-motor |
| Driving Modes | 5 (incl. Track Mode) | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 5 |
| Torque Vectoring | Active | Limited | Active | Active | Limited | Active |
| Range | 350 miles | 330 miles | 320 miles | 340 miles | 310 miles | 300 miles |
| Estimated Starting Price | $70,000 | $65,000 | $80,000 | $75,000 | $67,000 | $68,000 |
French Engineering: Commitment to Excellence
The A390's production is a showcase of French engineering expertise:
- Manufacturing: Built at Alpine’s Dieppe factory, known for its precision and quality standards.
- Collaborations:
- Devialet: For premium audio systems.
- Michelin: For specialized tires optimized for performance and efficiency. These partnerships not only enhance the A390’s appeal but also affirm Alpine's focus on delivering a complete driving experience.
Upcoming Reveal: Marking a Milestone
The A390’s official unveiling on May 27, 2025, coinciding with Alpine’s 70th-anniversary celebrations in Dieppe, France, is set to be a landmark event. This occasion will provide the first opportunity to experience the A390’s capabilities firsthand, setting the stage for its entry into the market.
Conclusion
The Alpine A390 is more than a new model; it’s a statement of intent from Alpine. By combining extreme performance testing, innovative technology, and French craftsmanship, the A390 sets a new standard for electric sport fastbacks. With its Arctic testing phase complete and an official debut on the horizon, the A390 is poised to redefine expectations in its segment.
