Alpine A290 Rallye Electrifies the Dirt with Old-School Grit

Alpine has decided that the electric future doesn’t have to be boring. Meet the A290 Rallye—the brand’s first fully electric competition car, unafraid of dust, corners or critical stares, and ready to tear through rally stages with intent. Into this tiny four-wheeled package, they’ve poured a mountain of engineering, ambition and just enough adrenaline to raise even a skeptic’s brow.

Hand-built in Dieppe, crafted to the latest FIA regulations and infused not just with power but with character, the A290 Rallye channels 220 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque to the front wheels via a ZF limited-slip differential. This isn’t some city-friendly capsule in race livery—it’s a legitimate weapon for the rally stage.

Beyond the roll cage, Sabelt racing seats and six-piston brake calipers, one feature shines with nostalgic intensity: a hydraulic handbrake. This car invites you to drift into corners like in the glory days—only this time, without the plumes of exhaust smoke.

Its compact dimensions and technical setup speak of a car born for competition. McPherson struts up front, multi-link suspension at the rear, ALP Racing’s bespoke dampers and Michelin Pilot Sport A tires on 18-inch EVO Corse wheels—this isn’t just sporty, it’s pure Alpine sport.

And if you think electric means whisper-quiet, think again. Alpine has added a sound system that mimics engine noise based on speed and throttle input, giving spectators more to hear than just tire squeal and gravel clatter.

Priced at €59,990 before taxes, the A290 Rallye isn’t some electric training mule—it’s a race-prepped, painted and assembled machine waiting for someone to bring it to the start line.

Its first official outing will be in France this year, complete with a dedicated Alpine zone and on-site charging infrastructure. And for those dreaming of joining a local rally, the A290 Rallye is homologated and ready to line up solo.

The model makes its dynamic debut at Goodwood from July 10 to 13, with the Mont Blanc stages awaiting in September.