The video game-style Challenges mode gives drivers a number of tasks to complete based on agility, power and endurance, with a new challenge unlocked every time one is achieved.
The A290 is set to be priced from £36,000 when it goes on sale towards the end of the year and the first deliveries are due to take place in early 2025.
Q&A: Philippe Krief, CEO, Alpine
What does the A290 tell us about the future of Alpine?
“Firstly, it says that we are going electric and, secondly, that we can have fun with electric models, because they allow us to offer more personalisation. Because we are a premium brand, personalisation is important and this car will allow us to start that and offer things from the Atelier, like we did for the A110.”
How important is the A290?
“Of course it’s important for us because it’s a big-volume product, but it’s more a question of making that first step for the brand. You have to look at the global picture because, for Alpine, our plan right now is to launch new cars and build our brand so that people embrace it. If we want to go to other markets, we need more product lines that are iconic and sporty, but also more lifestyle and versatile.
Do you need to convince people that electric cars are fun to drive?
“As soon as you drive the car, you will be convinced, I am sure. With EVs, you have a lot of opportunities and you can work to solve issues like weight and other things in order to build a better car. At the end of the day, the story of the automotive industry is to always make a better car than the previous one, and we can do the same with EVs, but also with sports cars.”