France celebrates the meeting of two of its most emblematic names in a partnership that brings the race tracks closer to the world of fashion. Lacoste and Alpine have unveiled an unprecedented collaboration, focused on the union of technical innovation, performance and French design, which materializes on two fronts: a unique model called Beware of the Crocodile – Alpine Lacoste A290 Rallye and a capsule collection of clothing.
Developed from the A290 Rallye — the competition version of Alpine’s first electric street car — the exclusive example was born for rally events. The look is bold, inspired by the iconic red tongue of the Lacoste crocodile, and brings together flared fenders, spoiler, air intakes and carbon fiber diffuser. On the mechanical side, the recipe favors agility and immediate electrical response, with optimized chassis, specific suspension for rally terrain, expanded gauges and aerodynamic solutions aimed at stability, cooling and downforce.
The interior is a complete immersion in the brand’s universe. The cabin bets on total red and recovers the traditional petit piqué fabric — the same as polo shirts — on benches and panels, now with embroidery signed by Potencier, the historic atelier responsible for the brand’s crocodiles. One detail draws attention: there are 290 references to the reptile scattered throughout the vehicle, which still uses parts produced in 3D printing to marry functionality and aesthetics, a principle that the two brands say they share.
In addition to the concept car, the partnership presents a capsule collection that brings the style of the courts, inherited from René Lacoste, closer to the racing spirit of Alpine, founded by Jean Rédélé. There are polo shirts, t-shirts, lightweight technical pieces, accessories and co-branded products, available in few countries. The launch comes packed with the film Le Test, a piece with a light and humorous tone produced by Ninety Films, starring actor Pierre Niney and Pierre Gasly, driver of the BWT Alpine team in Formula 1 — both brand ambassadors.
If the concept car functions as a showcase of style, the technical basis behind it is concrete. The A290 Rallye competition was presented in 2025, the year in which Alpine turns 70, and is assembled in the competition workshop of the Dieppe factory that bears the name of Jean Rédélé. It starts at 59,990 euros, excluding tax, in Europe, and gives rise to an all-electric one-make trophy that debuts in the French Rally Championship in 2026. The clothing collection, in turn, tries to bring to the wardrobe the lightness and precision that the two houses say they cultivate.
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