Alpine is making a strong statement in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape with their latest model, the A390_β. This futuristic five-seater sports fastback, part of Alpine’s ‘Dream Garage’ initiative, is aiming to blend daily practicality with a race-car-like character. But can it live up to its promises? Let’s take a closer look.
Breaking Down the Title: A390_β
Alpine’s A390_β may sound like an advanced equation, but it carries a clear message. The “A” represents Alpine’s signature range, while “390” is a nod to the car’s size and versatility. The Greek letter beta signifies its pre-production status, promising that the production model set to roll out in 2025 will be at least 85% similar.
When Aesthetics Meet Function
The A390_β’s design stirs interest at first glance. Mimicking a water droplet in motion, the car boasts a fluid, aerodynamic silhouette, its shape serving both aesthetics and function. Not merely eye-candy, it’s a technical tour-de-force, aiming to enhance performance through design. The “Cosmic Dust” lighting adds a futuristic touch, captivating even when the car is at rest.
Five-seater Sports Fastback: An Unexpected Mix
Alpine CEO Philippe Krief refers to the A390_β as “an A110 with five seats”, a nod to Alpine’s legendary track car. The A390_β aims to pack this performance spirit into a practical package, but can it deliver the same thrill? It remains to be seen, but the promise of an electrified fastback with a thrilling drive has fans on tenterhooks.
An Aerodynamic Masterpiece
Aerodynamics has been the focal point of A390_β’s development. The car’s unique rear end can extend up to 80mm, a trick designed to reduce drag and maximise range. This isn’t just engineering wizardry— it’s an effort to keep the sports car spirit alive beneath its sleek exterior.
Stepping Inside the Future
From a minimalist F1-inspired cockpit to the serene, alpine-inspired passenger area, the A390_β’s interior is a tale of two halves. It strives to balance racing spirit with relaxation, a challenge few cars dare to tackle.
Power and Performance
Beneath its stylish shell, the A390_β houses three electric motors— one at the front and two at the rear. Featured tech such as Active Torque Vectoring, typically reserved for exclusive hypercars, aims to enhance handling and acceleration. However, the final performance figures are yet to be revealed.
A Tribute to French Craftsmanship
More than just a performance vehicle, the A390_β showcases French craftsmanship and ingenuity. From the carbon floor to the bio-sourced materials in the seats, the car is a feast of French design and artisanal skill.
Sustainable Performance on the Horizon
Slated for production in 2025, the A390 is a symbol of Alpine’s commitment to EVs. It promises to deliver an exhilarating, environmentally-friendly driving experience. However, the roads will be the ultimate test of its claim to fuse Alpine’s racing DNA with electric mobility.
The A390_β is a bold statement of intent—a high-performance EV with space for five. Alpine’s electric era is firmly in sight, but the final verdict will rest on how well the A390_β balances its sporty aspirations with daily driving practicality once it hits the roads in 2025.
