Proportions play a fundamental role in giving such a small urban car of less than 4 metres a muscular appearance commensurate with the performance it delivers. The AmpR Small platform provides an excellent basis for this, reinforced by a 60mm widening of the track to achieve the visual presence desired by the Antony Villain-led Alpine design team. As a result, the A290 can offer the attitude of a muscular hot hatch ready to spring into action. Its dimensions remain very compact: length 3,990 mm, width 1,820 mm, height 1,520 mm, wheelbase 2,530 mm.
The list of elements that contribute to the bold expression of this body is long: the wide wings, the side skirts incorporating a subtle body-coloured edging that refines them, the aluminium roof edge (or anodised blue as standard on specific versions), the optional French flag on the C-pillar, the black shark antenna (standard), the wing logos (depending on version), the black lacquered body surround and wings, the distinctive line animating the rear door and, finally, the diffuser on the rear bumper. At the front, Alpine is spelt out, and a typical snowflake motif is integrated into the exclusive sports bumper.
At every stage of the body design process, the aerodynamic factor has been considered, which is particularly important when maximising electric range. Pursuing maximum efficiency has shaped the air intake in the bumper to create a beneficial air flow, as well as the wide side skirts, the diffuser, the vanes and the shape of the rear lights. The A290 does not incorporate an oversized spoiler that would have disrupted the rear flow, but rather a 'ducktail' at the tailgate to underline its sportiness.
The standard 19-inch alloy wheels come in two exclusive designs. The Iconic wheel design was created to reference the wheels on the Alpine A310. In contrast, the Snowflake wheels recall the origins of the Alpine name and are available in gloss black, semi-diamond black or diamond black finishes. A blue background behind the Alpine logo on the wheels is available as an option. The Brembo 4-piston monobloc front brake callipers with Alpine branding are the same as those on the A110. The front and rear callipers are available in Racing Red or Alpine Blue.
The catalogue includes four body colours, including a new Alpine Vision Blue, a signature colour that has been given particular depth to provide greater contrast between light and dark areas. The A290 is also available in Deep Black, Nival White and Matte Tornado Grey. A limited Première Edition of 1,955 will be available at launch in 4 versions: Première Édition, Beta, La Bleue, La Grise.
