Alpine is stepping into the electric SUV arena with its latest concept, the A390_β, positioning itself similarly to Lotus, known for its lightweight sports cars. While the brand has traditionally focused on sporty vehicles, much like Lotus with the Eletre, this new offering marks a shift towards the SUV segment. However, true to its identity, Alpine refers to the A390_β as a “sport fastback” rather than an SUV.
The design of the A390_β features a striking sloping roofline, resembling a blend between an SUV and a coupe. Since this is currently just a concept, Alpine can experiment with features like a lack of a conventional B-pillar and the inclusion of suicide doors, both of which are unlikely to make it to the final production model.
Despite the concept’s exciting aesthetics, it’s expected that the actual production vehicle will not be as flamboyant, although Alpine assures that about 85% of the exterior design will be retained in the final version.
Inside, the A390_β is inspired by the layout of Formula 1 cars, adapted for a more practical five-seat configuration. This model is anticipated to be an electric successor to the A110 sports car that Alpine originally planned to co-develop with Lotus before their partnership dissolved in mid-2023.
While detailed technical specifications are scarce at the moment, the production version is confirmed to incorporate three electric motors—one in the front and two in the rear—allowing for all-wheel drive. Interestingly, the AWD system won’t be permanent; the front motor can be decoupled to provide a more rear-wheel-drive feel. Additionally, active torque vectoring is promised, enhancing the driving experience.
The A390_β will be Alpine’s second electric vehicle, following the A290 hot hatchback, which is essentially a performance variant of the revived Renault 5. As Alpine prepares to enter the United States market in a few years, it appears that larger SUVs will take precedence over these electric models, while the A310 coupe is also on the horizon, designed to compete with the Porsche 911 in the electric segment.
By the end of the decade, Alpine aims to expand its EV lineup to at least seven models, including a recently confirmed supercar, which may feature a fully electric powertrain or utilize a hydrogen-fueled combustion engine. This move marks a significant shift for the brand, blending its sporty heritage with modern electric vehicle technology and a broader market appeal.
