The 215bhp front motor is carried over from the Renault Mégane E-Tech and tuned by Alpine to produce more torque. The range-topping model develops 221lb ft for a Cooper SE-baiting 0-62mph time of 6.4sec. There’s also a prominent red overtake button on the steering wheel that liberates maximum torque and power for 10 seconds.
Rather than replicate the noise of an ICE engine, Alpine collaborated with acousticians to create two bespoke driving sounds based on the “natural harmonics” of the electric motor.
“The sound is fundamental for emotion,” said Krief. “We must create a car that has an immersive experience. The steering, throttle, braking and sound are all things you feel. They create emotion and this is what we want to put into our cars.”
Inside, a 10.25in digital instrument cluster and 10.1in touchscreen infotainment display run Alpine Portal, the brand’s new infotainment system. Over-the-air updates are available and the system is supported by various Google-based apps.
Making its debut in the A290 is Alpine’s new Telemetrics programme, which comprises three main features: Live Data, Coaching and Challenges.
Live Data displays information relating to the car’s agility, power, endurance and lap times if you’re driving on a circuit, while Coaching is designed to help drivers improve their skills, giving advice on braking and drifting, for example.