by Alpine plans two electric convertibles based on upcoming A310 and A110. The A310 will debut as a fastback GT before spawning a droptop version. The EVs may use the tri-motor setup from the new A390 crossover.
Alpine’s Electric Future
By 2030, the French brand Alpine plans to have seven electric cars in its road portfolio, signaling a significant transformation of the brand. At the same time, the company promises to preserve capabilities for drivers who value an exciting driving experience. Among these new products will be a convertible built on the platform of the upcoming fastback coupe, which is currently referred to as the A310.
Details on the A310 Model
Since the market launch of these models is still quite far off, information is currently scarce. It is known that the A310 will initially enter the market as a four-door fastback, and only later will its open-top version appear. Given current market realities, it can be confidently assumed that the convertible will be two-door, as four-door open versions have practically disappeared.
Design and Technical Implementation
The fastback’s design is expected to closely echo the contours of the new Alpine A390 crossover. This sleek off-roader has smooth body lines and an athletic appearance. Its aggressive exterior, especially the sharp front end, would look great on a low-slung fastback.
There is a possibility that the new model will use the same tri-motor system as the A390. It includes one motor on the front axle and two on the rear, which together provide 396 hp in the GT version and 463 hp in the GT3 modification.
The Second Electric Sports Car
The second new electric convertible from Alpine will be a model based on the second-generation A110, expected to appear next year. Unlike the previous model, the new one will receive a futuristic design similar to the A390. According to Autocar, the roadster will be sold in parallel with the standard coupe version.
Expectations for the Powertrain
As with the A310, little is known yet about the powertrain of the new A110. Alpine has already presented a fully electric version of the current model, equipped with a 60 kWh battery and a single rear electric motor producing 239 hp with 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) of torque. While these specifications look quite promising, the new model is expected to hit the market with a larger battery and a more powerful motor.
Alpine’s transition to electric propulsion, particularly with a focus on open-top models, may indicate an interesting marketing strategy. Against the backdrop of a general trend towards serious, technology-laden electric cars, the brand is trying to preserve and reinterpret the emotional component of driving associated with wind in the hair and a sense of freedom. The success of these models will largely depend on whether engineers can combine dynamic characteristics that match the brand’s heritage with the requirements for modern range and fast charging. This could also be a test for the market: are sports car enthusiasts ready to accept them in electric form, especially in the niche convertible format?
