The French automotive landscape has gained a formidable new player with the debut of the Alpine A390, an electric sport fastback that delivers up to 470 horsepower through an innovative tri-motor powertrain and advanced torque vectoring technology. This marks Alpine’s boldest step yet in merging motorsport heritage with everyday practicality.
Revolutionary Tri-Motor Architecture
The A390’s distinctive powertrain features one electric motor on the front axle and two independent motors at the rear, creating an all-wheel-drive system unlike anything in the premium SUV segment. This configuration enables Alpine’s patented Active Torque Vectoring system, which can dynamically distribute power to individual wheels for enhanced cornering precision.
Alpine engineers designed this system to deliver more torque to the outside wheel during cornering, helping offset the weight penalty typical of electric vehicles. The result is a driving experience that Alpine claims rivals the agility of their lightweight A110 sports car, despite the A390’s 4,676-pound curb weight.
Performance Specifications
The A390 launches in two distinct variants, each targeting different performance priorities:
| Variant | Power Output | Torque | 0-62 mph | Top Speed | Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT | 400 HP | 479 lb-ft | 4.8 seconds | 124 mph | 344 miles |
| GTS | 470 HP | 596 lb-ft | 3.9 seconds | 137 mph | 323 miles |
Both versions utilize an 89-kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery with 190-kW fast charging capability, enabling 15-80% charging in under 15 minutes.
Design Philosophy and Aerodynamics
Sports Car DNA in Family Package
The A390 straddles the boundary between a sedan and an SUV, standing nearly four inches shorter than a Porsche Macan EV and less than an inch taller than a BMW i5 sedan. Alpine’s design team preserved the brand’s signature aesthetic elements while optimizing aerodynamic efficiency.
Key aerodynamic features include a functional rear diffuser, subtle black rear spoiler, and a floating wing integrated into the hood that directs air through a channel between the headlights. The distinctive “Cosmic Dust” triangular LED lighting elements pay homage to Alpine’s racing heritage.
Interior Innovation
The cabin blends motorsport inspiration with luxury appointments, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays for instrumentation and a 12-inch infotainment system running Android Automotive OS. Premium materials including Alcantara, carbon fiber, and leather create an environment worthy of Alpine’s performance pedigree.
Advanced Vehicle Dynamics
Hydraulic Suspension System
True to French automotive tradition, the A390 employs hydraulic shock absorbers rather than conventional air suspension systems. This choice reflects Alpine’s commitment to delivering precise road feel and dynamic responsiveness.
The suspension setup includes multiple drive modes – Save, Normal, Sport, Perso, and Track – each calibrating throttle response, steering weight, and torque vectoring parameters. A special “Overtake” function provides 10 seconds of additional power boost for high-performance scenarios.
Market Positioning and Availability
European Launch Strategy
Production begins in early 2026 at Alpine’s historic Dieppe factory, with pricing starting from approximately $69,000 for the GT variant and $80,500 for the GTS. The vehicle’s supply chain emphasizes French manufacturing, with batteries from Dunkirk, powertrains from Cleon, and final assembly in Douai.
US Market Uncertainty
Initially planned for a 2027 US market entry, Alpine has delayed American expansion due to rising import tariffs, potentially pushing the timeline closer to 2030. This represents a significant setback for Alpine’s global ambitions and American enthusiasts eager for French automotive alternatives.
Competitive Landscape
The A390 enters a crowded premium electric crossover segment, competing directly with the Porsche Macan EV, Tesla Model Y, Audi Q4 Sportback E-tron, and Polestar 4. However, Alpine’s focus on dynamic driving experience and torque vectoring technology positions it uniquely in this competitive field.
According to Euro NCAP safety standards, all new vehicles must meet stringent European Union GSR2 legislative framework requirements, ensuring the A390 will incorporate comprehensive safety systems beyond basic regulatory compliance.
The Alpine A390 represents more than just another electric crossover – it embodies France’s commitment to maintaining automotive soul in an increasingly digitized landscape. With its combination of motorsport heritage, innovative technology, and practical versatility, the A390 could well redefine what enthusiasts expect from an electric family vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Alpine A390 be available for purchase?
A: Production begins in early 2026, with European deliveries starting in Q4 2025 and full availability by early 2026.
Q: How does the torque vectoring system improve handling?
A: The dual rear motors can independently control each wheel, sending more torque to the outside wheel during cornering to enhance agility and reduce understeer.
Q: Will the Alpine A390 come to the United States?
A: US launch plans have been delayed due to import tariffs, with Alpine now targeting closer to 2030 for American market entry.
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