A390 crossover EV joins Alpine Dream Garage

Alpine (a brand in the Renault Group) has revealed the second model in the Alpine Dream Garage, following the A290 launched last year and preceding the A110. This is also the second all-electric model of the brand which has a history going back to 1955.

A compact crossover SUV that rivals the Porsche Macan, the A390 is described as a ‘racing car in a suit’. Its drivetrain consists of 3 electric motors (one at the front, two at the rear) that form an AWD system (a first for Alpine) and enable the development of the Alpine Active Torque Vectoring system which is activated by the 2 rear motors.

The dynamic work of Alpine Active Torque Vectoring is complemented by Alpine Torque Pre-Control upstream torque management, as on the A290, to guarantee traction with the A390’s ultra-generous torque. Five driving modes can be selected using the dedicated button on the steering wheel and it is also possible to completely deactivate the ESC via a dedicated button on the dashboard.

Two versions, offering different power outputs, are available – the A390 GT with 294 kW (400 hp) and the A390 GTS which develops 345 kW (470 hp), with up to 808 Nm. This more powerful version has a claimed 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/hm performance levels comparable to the A110R.

The A390 debuts a battery with high-performance chemistry made in France (cells and modules) developed specifically for Alpine by French specialist Verkor for the first time. The specifications for developing this battery were particularly demanding. It had to guarantee maximum discharge power for traction (up to 1,200A in discharge mode to power the 3 motors and deliver their 345 kW). It also had to reproduce the same performance several times in succession, maintaining the same level as the battery discharges (up to 30% SOC).

With a generous 89 kWh battery capacity, the A390 is said to be able to go up 555 kms. DC fast charging can be done at up to 190 kW, but more important than peak power is the ability to maintain high charging power for long periods, which requires intelligent charging management.

The A390’s average charging power allows it to recharge in less than 20 minutes for 2 hours of motorway driving, and go from 15% to 80% charge in less than 25 minutes, it is claimed. The 400V electric platform developed by Ampere (a Renault subsidiary) includes energy services for home charging. Mobilize Power, the V2G bidirectional charging (in France), makes it part of a comprehensive electric ecosystem offering an optimal experience.

Within the 4615 mm long body of the A390 is a sporty environment which is driver-oriented. 12.3-inch and 12-inch high-definition screens face the driver, while the high centre console, inspired by the iconic design of the A110, incorporates the characteristic Alpine RND transmission controls, highlighted by two customisable wings. The colour theme is blue, in keeping with the Alpine A290.

Physical climate control allows drivers to adjust settings without taking their eyes off the road. The sport steering wheel features a flat bottom and a centre point and there are 2 specific coloured aluminium buttons, inspired by the world of Formula 1. These control the regeneration level up to One Pedal mode and the boost available for overtaking and launch control.

Having 5 doors provides easy access and, in the rear, the two side passengers enjoy valuable support during sportier driving. Though compact in overall size, the A390 boasts a generous boot capacity of 532 litres, which can offer more versatility with an optional double floor.

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