Alpine A290 Rallye: The all-new Alpine A290 Rallye marks a significant shift in the world of electric motorsport. Built on the foundations of Alpine’s upcoming road-going A290 hot hatch, the Rallye version is designed specifically for competitive racing—making it the brand’s first-ever all-electric customer competition car. It’s crafted not just for show but for serious one-make events and open rally competitions, aiming to put EV performance at the heart of motorsport.
While many performance EVs rely on flashy power stats, Alpine has taken a more refined approach with the A290 Rallye. The car retains its 215bhp front-mounted electric motor, but Alpine engineers have reworked the ECU, battery efficiency, suspension, and braking systems for racing dominance. With a 52kWh battery and improved software monitoring, the A290 Rallye focuses on maximum efficiency and race-ready durability, something essential in a motorsport setting. The result? A balanced electric racer built for twisty tracks and gravel rallies alike.
Visually, the Alpine A290 Rallye doesn’t shy away from its motorsport DNA. The exterior is fitted with aggressive aero upgrades, including a roof scoop, bonnet pins, and a blue-and-white racing livery. Massive 18-inch Evo Corse alloy wheels, 350mm front brake discs, and an FIA-compliant roll cage inside complete the transformation from urban EV to track monster. And at around £62,000, it offers a fully equipped racing experience with Alpine’s support at selected events
Alpine A290 Rallye Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single front-mounted e-motor |
| Power Output | 215 bhp (160 kW) |
| Torque | 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) |
| Battery Capacity | 52 kWh |
| Drive Type | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| Limited Slip Differential | ZF self-locking LSD |
| Front Brakes | 350mm discs |
| Rear Brakes | 280mm discs |
| Wheels | 18-inch Evo Corse alloys |
| Suspension | Modified with ALP Racing shocks |
| Safety Features | FIA-grade roll cage, Sabelt bucket seats |
| Special Additions | Hydraulic handbrake, upgraded ECU, ABS race control |
Features That Make the A290 Rallye Unique
Despite retaining the same electric motor as the road-going version, Alpine has given the Rallye purpose-built upgrades. The ECU has been remapped, allowing the car to deliver power more responsively, crucial during aggressive cornering and throttle modulation.
A standout addition is the new sound generator, which responds to throttle input to give drivers audio feedback. It may not offer traditional engine growls, but it brings immersive race-ready soundscapes to enhance the driving experience.
Inside, the Rallye gets FIA-certified safety components. From the Sabelt racing bucket seats to the welded roll cage, Alpine ensures driver safety without compromising weight or handling.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Alpine A290 Rallye may not boast extra horsepower, but its race-oriented dynamics more than make up for it. The ZF limited-slip differential ensures maximum grip and control through tight bends, while ALP Racing shocks offer stability on uneven rally terrain.
With 350mm front discs and a finely-tuned ABS system, the car is built for aggressive braking zones and technical circuits. The hydraulic handbrake isn’t just for show—it’s essential for quick direction changes and dramatic slides in rally stages.
Most importantly, the software tuning allows the 52kWh battery to perform optimally, ensuring consistent power delivery and battery health during competition.
Exterior and Interior Design
The Alpine A290 Rallye screams motorsport from every angle. A striking two-tone blue and white livery, black bonnet with quick-release pins, and roof-mounted air scoop make it stand out at any race track. The wide fenders and lowered stance add to its aggressive profile, enhancing both aerodynamics and visual appeal.
Inside, it’s all business. Forget infotainment screens and plush seating—this is a bare-bones racing cockpit. The minimalist dashboard, Sabelt racing seats, six-point harnesses, and roll cage offer one thing: race-ready focus and safety.
Alpine A290 Rallye Price and Launch Date
The Alpine A290 Rallye is priced at €59,990 pre-VAT, which roughly translates to £62,000 in the UK. While that may seem steep for a compact electric vehicle, it’s actually a compelling price for a turnkey race car backed by a manufacturer.
Alpine will debut the Rallye in a single-make event in France later in 2025, with full customer deliveries and racing support expected by the end of the year. At select events, Alpine will provide paddocks, charging stations, and technical support, making it one of the most accessible entries into electric motorsport.
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Alpine A290 Rallye Conclusion
The Alpine A290 Rallye is not just another electric hot hatch—it’s a bold step into the future of motorsport. With no gimmicky power bumps, Alpine proves that performance tuning, smart engineering, and precision handling matter more than headline figures. It’s a car designed with racers in mind, ready to slide sideways into gravel corners and blast through twisty circuits.
At around £62,000, the Rallye offers much more than a fast EV—it gives passionate drivers a factory-backed entry into racing, complete with support and infrastructure. Whether you’re a privateer or just a thrill-seeker, the A290 Rallye brings a new level of excitement to the electric racing scene.
Alpine A290 Rallye FAQs
1. Is the Alpine A290 Rallye road-legal?
No, the Rallye version is built specifically for motorsport and includes modifications like an FIA-grade roll cage and racing suspension, which make it unsuitable for road use.
2. Does the A290 Rallye have more power than the standard A290?
No, it retains the same 215bhp front-mounted electric motor, but Alpine has optimized the ECU and battery systems for better performance in racing conditions.
3. Can private individuals buy the Alpine A290 Rallye?
Yes! It is designed as a customer competition car, so private buyers and teams can purchase and race it in one-make Alpine events or other open races.
4. What support does Alpine offer for Rallye owners?
Alpine offers technical support, charging infrastructure, and even their own paddock setups at select events. This makes ownership and participation easier for new entrants to motorsport.
