The Alpine A290 Rallye is an electric hot hatch designed for racing from the outset. The electric car features front-wheel drive, 215 horsepower, improved brakes, a stronger frame, and an FIA-certified roll cage. The factory-installed A290 Rallye is not offered in the US, which is a shame because it has a hydraulic handbrake that can be used to make tight turns. Alpine has been involved in rally racing since 1955, when Jean Rédélé started the French car company. The Alpine A106 helped the company establish its reputation in racing, and the A110 that followed it further enhanced its success in the 1960s and 1970s. Alpine is now targeting the next generation of racers in the United States with the A290 Rallye, an electric race car that can be purchased ready to go. The new Rallye model draws its inspiration from the Alpine A290 hatchback. It uses the same platform and engine. A front-mounted electric motor with 215 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque sends power to the front axle through a limited-slip differential made by ZF. The 18-inch EVO Corsa wheels on each corner are painted white and come with Michelin Pilot Sport A tires, which are specifically designed for use on European roads. The Alpine A290 Rallye features a distinctive paint job, predominantly white with accents of black, red, and the brand’s famous blue. The hatchback features a matte black hood that complements the roof, which boasts a small, elegant air scoop and shiny black fender flares. The standard A290, which is built on the Renault 5 platform, features a striking design highlighted by robust, squared-off bumpers and distinctive X-shaped headlights. Everything above also applies to the race car, which has changes that make it more than just a pretty package. Alpine and the Viry-Châtillon teams collaborated to transform the EV hatch into a race car that met FIA regulations. It includes a welded roll cage and Sabelt racing seats, along with a hydraulic handbrake to help the driver execute sharp hairpin turns more effectively. The Rallye features improved brakes, including front calipers with six pistons that clamp 13.8-inch rotors, as well as a new frame equipped with ALP Racing dampers. Alpine says that the cars also have ABS calibrations specifically designed for racing. Even though the electric A290 racer doesn’t have an engine, it produces fake noises that indicate where the accelerator is pressed and how fast it is traveling. In case you didn’t know, Alpine doesn’t sell new cars in North America at this time. The A290 Rallye is no different. Our friends on the other side of the world should save around $70,000 for a race car made by a workshop. Alpine said it would hold a single racing event for a small group of customers before the end of the year. The event might take place in France. The A290 racer will, of course, be able to participate in both open and spec events by itself.
