The Alpine A290 Beta Concept is more than just a pretty face. It's a preview of the French brand's first electric sports car, which will arrive in 2024 as a successor to the current Alpine A110. The concept, which debuted at the 2023 Geneva Motor Show, combines a sleek and lightweight design with a powerful and efficient powertrain that promises to deliver a thrilling driving experience.
The concept is powered by a mid-mounted turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 210 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an electric motor that adds 80 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque for a total output of 290 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The electric motor also acts as a starter-generator and a mild-hybrid system that can provide short bursts of extra power or recuperate energy during braking. The power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters.
The concept also features a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis that weighs only 220 pounds and provides high rigidity and safety. The chassis is fitted with a multi-link rear suspension, torque vectoring, adaptive dampers, and Brembo brakes. The concept rides on 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The concept weighs 2,425 pounds, which is about 440 pounds less than the current Alpine A110.production model will likely retain most of the concept's design and technical features but with some modifications to meet homologation and customer requirements. The price of the new Alpine sports car is estimated to be around $60,000 (€50,000), which would make it a competitive alternative to other mid-engine sports cars such as the Porsche Cayman, the Toyota GR Supra, and the Lotus Emira.
