Is it time to replace your race suit? Let’s get you track-ready. Next-Gen Alpine A110 EV: Reinventing a Lightweight Icon for the Electric Age
The Alpine A110 is about to undergo a bold transformation. Come late 2026, this famed lightweight sports car will return as a fully electric coupe, a reinvention originally conceived in partnership with Lotus. Enthusiasts are naturally asking: does the A110 deserve an EV makeover, and what will it offer performance-focused drivers? In this blog, we’ll explore the confirmed and rumored specs of the next-gen A110 EV, its track-day appeal, how Alpine aims to preserve the nimble handling of the current petrol A110, and how it stacks up against traditional ICE sports cars. We’ll also discuss potential track upgrades future A110 EV owners might consider. Let’s dive into Alpine’s electric revolution and see if this high-voltage A110 can live up to its legendary name.
QX80 R-Spec Overview: GT-R Engine, 1000 HP & Race-Ready Upgrades
Alpine’s decision to electrify the A110 isn’t just a simple engine swap; it’s a ground-up reengineering of the car’s platform and character. The project was initially co-developed with Lotus, aligning two brands known for lightweight performance. (Lotus has since opted to pursue its own path, leaving Alpine to finish the A110 EV on a bespoke platform.) The result is the upcoming A110 EV built on the new Alpine Performance Platform (APP), a dedicated sports car architecture using extruded aluminum for minimal weight. Alpine’s CEO Philippe Krief, formerly an engineering chief at Ferrari, has emphasized that electrification will not dilute the A110’s spirit. In fact, he sees it as an opportunity: “We are not selling electric cars. We are selling sporty cars, passionate cars, exclusive cars, that are electric,” Krief explains. In other words, the A110 EV is designed to be an Alpine first and an EV second, staying true to the brand’s performance DNA.
From the outside, don’t expect a radical departure in styling. Spy reports suggest the 2026 A110 EV will closely resemble the outgoing A110, retaining signature cues like the quad round headlights and low-slung, sculpted body. It’s essentially the familiar mid-engine French coupe reimagined for the electric era right down to cleverly packaging the battery where the engine used to be. Alpine confirms they won’t mount the battery under the floor, since that would raise the ride height and driving position. Instead, engineers have “found some really nice battery installation” likely in a mid-ship position behind the seats. This layout keeps the car’s center of gravity ultra low and the driver’s hips close to the ground, just like the petrol A110. The goal is an EV that feels as agile and intimate as the original, despite the extra mass of batteries.
Big Power and High-Tech Specs: 544 HP, 800V Architecture, and More
On paper, the next-gen A110 EV’s specs are shaping up to be seriously impressive. Here’s a rundown of what Alpine has confirmed or hinted at so far:
- Dual-Motor Powertrain: The base A110 EV will use two electric motors (one per rear wheel), providing rear-wheel drive with active torque vectoring. A tri-motor all-wheel-drive version is also planned, likely adding a smaller motor to the front axle for extra traction. This means even the “standard” A110 EV effectively has electronic rear differential control, and an AWD model could arrive later for those who want maximum grip.
- Output and Performance: Alpine is targeting around 544 hp (400 kW) in total output for the dual-motor setup, more than double the horsepower of today’s A110 S! With instant electric torque, 0–100 km/h acceleration is rumoured to drop to about 3.5 seconds, a significant jump from the current A110’s ~4.5 sec sprint. In fact, the EV’s projected output of 500+ bhp (≈373+ kW) approaches supercar territory. The top speed hasn’t been quoted yet, but expect it north of 250 km/h if gearing allows. In short, the A110 EV will be considerably quicker in a straight line than any of its petrol predecessors.
- Featherweight (for an EV): Weight is the enemy of performance, and Alpine is obsessed with keeping the EV as light as possible. The target curb weight is ~1,450 kg (3,200 lbs), which is remarkably low for an electric sports car. For context, that’s in the ballpark of a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, a gasoline track special, and lighter than comparable combustion rivals according to Alpine. It’s still about 300+ kg heavier than the tiny ICE A110 Pure, but Alpine claims clever engineering (lightweight aluminum construction, integrated motor/transmission units, etc.) will make the EV “lighter than a comparable combustion-engine car” in its class. If they hit 1.45 tonnes, it will indeed undercut most petrol sports cars of similar power.
- Battery and Range: The A110 EV is expected to carry a battery around 60 kWh in capacity (using high-density cells). Alpine quotes a driving range up to 600 km (373 miles) on a charge in a mild “GT” driving mode. Real-world spirited driving or track laps will yield much less, of course, but the headline figure suggests the A110 EV won’t be a short-range city EV; it’s grand-tourer capable. Importantly, the battery pack will use an 800-volt architecture, which allows for ultra-fast charging and reduced weight in wiring/electronics. DC rapid charging times haven’t been officially stated, but with 800V tech, we can reasonably expect 10–80% top-ups in under 20 minutes on a high-power charger. That means quick pit stops to recharge between track sessions could be feasible. Also noteworthy: Alpine hinted at making the battery pack easily swappable or upgradable as technology improves, a forward-thinking idea so owners could retrofit newer cells down the line.
- Chassis and Design: The A110 EV remains a compact two-seater, similar in footprint to the current model. Alpine plans to offer multiple body styles over time, a coupe and a convertible, and even a 2+2 variant is on the table. The first version will launch as a coupe in late 2026 (likely revealed at the Paris Motor Show that fall), with a roadster to follow a couple of years later. The styling will echo the classic A110 shape, but Alpine says the new design will “make the current car look old” expect a modernized, more aggressive evolution of the smooth Alpine look. Aerodynamics will be key as well; Alpine’s racing involvement (F1 and endurance racing) suggests some track-honed aero elements could appear, though “subtle tweaks” rather than oversized wings if spy shots are any indication.
All told, the next-gen A110 EV promises a tantalizing mix of high power, manageable weight, and long range, a combination that could absolutely justify its electric makeover. But straight-line stats are only half the story. Where Alpine truly made its name is in handling, driver engagement, and that indescribable “magic” of a lightweight sports car. Can an electric A110 deliver the same smiles on a twisty road or track? Alpine is intent on making sure it does.
Track-Day Focus: Torque Vectoring, No Fake Gimmicks, and Consistent Braking
Alpine knows that many A110 owners take their cars to the track or enjoy spirited drives, so the A110 EV is being engineered with serious track-day appeal from day one.
- Rear Torque Vectoring for Sharper Handling:
Thanks to twin rear in-wheel motors, the A110 EV will offer advanced torque vectoring. Power can be sent more to the outer wheel and less to the inner, helping rotate the car through corners with precision. It’s like having an electronic limited-slip diff, but without the weight. Expect crisp turn-in and controllable oversteer when you want it. Alpine is aiming for fun, fast cornering, not just tire smoke. - No Gimmicks, Just Pure EV Performance:
Unlike some sporty EVs that simulate gear changes or pipe in fake engine sounds, Alpine is avoiding that entirely. The A110 EV will deliver real electric power with a clean, natural driving experience. You’ll hear the tires and wind, not synthetic noise, which adds to the raw connection on track. - Consistent and Confident Braking:
Braking is key for track confidence, and Alpine is focusing on feel and durability. Expect a well-tuned blend of regenerative and friction braking that stays consistent lap after lap. Multiple regen settings may be included so you can fine-tune how the car slows on lift-off. Serious drivers will still want to upgrade pads and fluid, especially for track use. - Track Mode and Cooling Performance:
A dedicated track mode is likely, designed to keep the power consistent and the battery cool. Think optimized cooling circuits and maybe even active aero elements. With less thermal mass than heavier EVs, the A110 EV should manage multiple hot laps without power fade, perfect for open pit-lane track days. - A Stripped-Down ‘R’ Version?
There’s a chance Alpine will release a lighter, track-focused version of the A110 EV, just like they did with the petrol A110 R. Expect weight-saving materials, bucket seats, firm suspension, and fewer creature comforts. If they go this route, it’ll be a dream for serious circuit drivers. - Track-Ready and Upgrade-Friendly:
For those looking to fine-tune their setup, there’s plenty of potential. Brake upgrades, harness bars, racing seats, and sticky tires will all help unlock more performance. GSM Performance will be ready with the right gear, from FIA harnesses to motorsport brake components, so owners can get the most out of their A110 EV, whether road or track.
Preserving Alpine’s Magic: Handling Feel in an EV World
The biggest question surrounding the A110 EV is whether it can keep the driving magic that made the petrol version so special. Alpine thinks it can, and they’re taking smart steps to make sure it feels just as sharp, light, and fun.
- Instant EV Response = Lively Handling
Electric motors deliver power instantly, and Alpine is using that to give the A110 EV a super responsive feel. By tuning the steering for quick reactions and using torque vectoring at the rear, it should still dart through corners like the original. The goal is for it to feel just as nimble, only with even faster acceleration. - Fighting Weight the Right Way
Alpine is working hard to keep weight down. The chassis uses lightweight aluminum, and the motor and electronics are compact and integrated. With a 1,450 kg target, it’s heavier than the ICE version but still lighter than most rivals. A mid-mounted battery should help keep the balance similar to a mid-engine car, helping with cornering and stability. - Low Seating Position Preserved
One of the A110’s strengths is how low you sit. Alpine avoided putting the battery under the floor, instead placing it in the tunnel and behind the seats. That keeps the driver’s position low and sporty, just like in the petrol model, and helps maintain a low center of gravity for better handling. - Steering Feel and Front-End Precision
Alpine hasn’t shared full details on the steering system yet, but with no front motor or heavy engine up front, the steering should feel clean and uncorrupted. Expect direct turn-in and good feedback, especially if they fine-tune the geometry and assist. - No Fake Sounds or Shifts
Alpine won’t be adding fake engine noises or simulated gear shifts. Instead, they’re sticking with real EV performance and letting the natural sounds of tires, wind, and road come through. Some may miss the drama of an ICE, but others will enjoy the purity and quiet focus of the EV drive. - Still Focused on Driver Engagement
While it won’t roar like a petrol engine, the A110 EV promises a new kind of excitement: quick responses, sharp handling, and a real connection to the road. For drivers who value feel and balance over sheer noise, it could be a refreshing change. And Alpine has hinted that if there’s enough demand, they haven’t ruled out a future petrol variant. - In short, Alpine is doing everything it can to make sure the A110 EV still delivers that signature go-kart-like fun, just with a new twist.
EV vs. ICE: How the A110 EV Compares to Petrol Sports Cars
The A110 EV might be electric, but it’s shaping up to be a serious contender against its petrol-powered rivals.
- Power-to-Weight:
The last ICE A110 made 300 hp and weighed just over 1100 kg. The EV version adds weight (around 1450 kg) but nearly doubles the power with about 544 hp. That gives it a power-to-weight ratio that’s better than a Porsche 911 Carrera S and close to a Cayman GT4 RS. So while it’s heavier, it more than makes up for it with sheer performance. - Handling and Balance:
Petrol cars are lighter, but their engines add a lot of front-end weight. The A110 EV spreads its mass more evenly, with the battery and motors placed low and central. That helps with balance and stability. Alpine says the EV might even be lighter than some ICE rivals like the Cayman GTS or GT4 RS, which would be a major achievement for an electric sports car. - Driver Feel and Engagement:
The A110 has never had a manual gearbox, so the EV’s single-speed setup doesn’t lose anything in that regard. You still get instant response and seamless power. It won’t have the same tactile experience as a stick shift, but the chassis feel and torque hit should still be seriously rewarding. - Modding Potential:
Unlike ICE cars, you probably won’t be tuning the A110 EV for more power. But upgrades for brakes, suspension, and handling will still be key. GSM Performance customers could focus on things like race pads, harness kits, and lighter components. As Alpine develops track-ready versions or enters motorsport with the EV, expect more performance parts to follow. - Running Costs and Maintenance:
EVs typically cost less to run. You skip oil changes, clutch jobs, and many moving parts that wear out on a petrol engine. And with Alpine’s experience in Formula E and endurance racing, they’re designing the EV to handle high-performance driving without breaking down. Regenerative braking will also help preserve the brakes during everyday use, though track use will still push the friction brakes hard.
In short, the A110 EV brings strong performance, track-ready balance, and lower running costs, while still offering enough mod potential for enthusiasts who want to push further. It may be different from petrol sports cars, but it’s far from boring.
The Alpine A110 EV: Lightweight Thrills, Electric Power
The upcoming Alpine A110 EV isn’t just an electric version of the A110, it’s a fresh take on what a lightweight, driver-focused sports car can be in the EV era. Alpine has stayed true to its core values by focusing on handling, driver feedback, and keeping the weight as low as possible. With clever engineering like an 800V battery setup and compact design, they’re aiming to deliver big performance without losing the fun.
For drivers who love the current A110’s agility, the EV version should feel just as sharp, only with instant torque and more advanced control systems. Alpine isn’t chasing gimmicks either, no fake sounds or simulated shifts, just a clean and responsive EV experience.
At GSM Performance, we’re excited to see how this fits into the track day world. It’s shaping up to be a serious option for drivers who want a car that’s quick, balanced, and ready to be modified for the circuit. Whether it’s brake upgrades, harness kits, or advice on track prep, we’ll be ready to support those looking to push their A110 EV to its full potential.
The EV version may be a big shift, but if Alpine delivers on its promises, it could set a new standard for electric sports cars. It keeps the soul of the original A110 and adds the tech to make it future-proof. We’re looking forward to what comes next.