The A390_β show car, Alpine's first fully electric sport fastback, opens a new chapter in the brand’s evolution. This model previews the second of three vehicles in Alpine’s Dream Garage, a collection of cars designed for passionate drivers. Following the A290 and preceding the future electric A110, the A390_β represents a pivotal phase in Alpine’s shift towards electrification.
A Name That Signals Innovation
The A390_β follows Alpine’s established naming system: “A” for Alpine, a three-digit number, and in this case, the Greek letter beta (β). The number 3 indicates the car's size, while the 90 refers to Alpine’s versatile, everyday vehicles. The beta symbol signals this model as an intermediate stage, a preview of the production car yet to come.
A Glimpse of the Future
The A390_β offers a preview of Alpine's future electric road car. This model is designed for everyday use but can transform into a high-performance vehicle, much like the legendary A110. Alpine has positioned it as a true sports car, blending a sleek exterior with the power of a racing machine wrapped in a tailor-made design.
Inspired by Nature and Racing Heritage
Much like the Alpenglow concept revealed at the 2022 Paris Motor Show, the A390_β draws inspiration from nature, particularly the Alps. Elements like rock, minerals, and snow influenced both the materials and design, reflecting strength and elegance. Alpine’s heritage in racing, combined with French craftsmanship, results in a daring and innovative creation.
Commitment to Sustainability and Performance
In an era where the automotive industry is moving towards lower carbon emissions, the A390_β showcases Alpine's commitment to sustainable performance. The show car represents more than just a promise; it’s a testament to Alpine’s dedication to creating high-end, electrifying, and eco-friendly sports cars.
A Vision for the Future
Philippe Krief, CEO of Alpine, remarked, “The A390_β previews the future Alpine sport fastback, a model designed to offer the thrilling experience of an A110, but with five seats. This show car exemplifies our vision of blending racing spirit with refinement. From 2025, we’ll deliver this experience in our production vehicle, crafted at our historic Dieppe Manufacture.”
Exterior Design: Sport Fastback, Alpine’s First
A Dynamic and Fluid Silhouette
The A390_β captivates with its Alpine identity, featuring a streamlined, high-tech light strip. Its fluid, dynamic silhouette resembles a monolithic bubble, inspired by the natural shape of a water droplet, optimizing both functionality and aerodynamics. The car’s side profile echoes the signature lines of Alpine vehicles, creating a sense of movement even when stationary.
The Iconic “Bleu Specular”
The A390_β is painted in a striking "Bleu Specular," a vibrant blue that enhances its sharp contours. The paint reflects light in motion, shifting between lighter and deeper shades, which accentuates the vehicle's sculpted lines.
Lighting: The Soul of the Show Car
The A390_β features a distinctive lighting signature, inspired by the Alpenglow. The "Cosmic Dust" design, made up of illuminated triangles, evokes a comet piercing through the atmosphere. The slim light bars at the front and rear contribute to the car’s sleek and futuristic appearance.
Aerodynamics: Built for Performance
The A390_β incorporates visible aerodynamic elements, designed for maximum sportiness. A "flying bridge" at the front enhances airflow, while wide side scoops create an air curtain for better aerodynamics. The rear end features a retractable light strip that can extend by 80 mm, transforming the vehicle from a short-tail to a long-tail design. This feature reduces drag and improves the car’s range.
Snowflake-Inspired Wheels
The wheels of the A390_β are inspired by the crystalline structure of a snowflake, combining strength and lightness. The 22-inch front and 23-inch rear wheels are illuminated by a bluish halo, with a transparent central flange that reveals the Active Torque Vectoring function.
A New Definition of Sport Fastback
The A390_β is 85% true to the future production model, embodying Alpine’s philosophy of "form follows function." Its fastback design combines fluidity and sportiness with ample interior space, providing an aerodynamic edge. The plunging rear window contributes to the vehicle’s sleek profile, blending lightness with dynamism, and inviting drivers to share the joy of sportiness with others.
Conclusion
The A390_β show car is a milestone in Alpine’s journey towards electrification, combining cutting-edge design, performance, and sustainability. As part of the Dream Garage series, this electric sport fastback embodies the brand’s future, promising an exhilarating driving experience while staying true to Alpine’s racing DNA and commitment to innovation.
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