Alpine, Renault’s performance arm, is rapidly electrifying its lineup. Following the launch of the A290 hot hatch last year, the company introduced the A390 electric sport fastback this week. The brand is also working on a third electric model, currently hidden under cover, slated for release in 2026. This new model will not expand the lineup but replace the gasoline-powered A110, ending production of the turbocharged sports coupe in early 2026.
Electric A110 Development
The upcoming electric A110 will maintain the mid-engine proportions of its gasoline counterpart, retaining Alpine’s signature quad lights, though now in a hexagonal design. Initially, Alpine partnered with Lotus in 2021 to co-develop a small electric performance car, but Renault chose to pursue the project independently just two years later.
Renault CEO Luca de Meo stated that the production A110 EV will be lighter than its internal combustion counterparts, a notable achievement given that the A110 E-ternity prototype weighed 568 pounds more than its gasoline version. De Meo acknowledged that heavy investment in the niche A110 EV was “not rational,” but the project was approved nonetheless. To offset costs, Alpine will use the bespoke platform for the upcoming A310, a larger derivative with rear seats.
Market Context
The new Alpine EVs will enter a competitive electric sports car space, which includes models like the MG Cyberster. While the Cyberster is currently sold as a convertible, a coupe version with rear seats is forthcoming. Other changes in the segment include Porsche discontinuing the 718 Boxster and Cayman in October, with electric replacements planned for the medium term. The front-engined BMW Z4 M40i is also set to be discontinued next year.
Future Plans
Alpine’s portfolio is expected to grow with larger vehicles, at least one of which may reach North America. The electric A110’s arrival in the US market remains uncertain, as the gasoline model’s production is set to end next year. As Alpine transitions to electric vehicles, the brand is poised to make significant changes in the sports car segment.
