🚨 2025 Alpine A290: Emergency Neutral
The 2025 Alpine A290 uses an electronic push-button or toggle-style drive selector typical of modern EVs, mounted on the center console.
✓ Expert-verified by Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — master technicians, 20+ years each.
⚠️ Chock the wheels first — neutral means the car can roll. Set the parking brake while you work, never stand downhill of the vehicle, and try a 12-volt jump before any override: power fixes most stuck-in-park problems instantly.
The procedure
- Ensure the vehicle is on a level surface and chocked; the parking brake should be engaged.
- If 12V battery has power: Press the brake pedal and press the power button to turn on the vehicle's systems without starting the drive unit.
- Select Neutral (N) using the drive selector.
- If 12V battery is completely dead: You must jump-start or connect an external 12V power source to the vehicle's 12V battery to energize the shifter electronics—there is no mechanical shift-lock override on this EV platform.
- Once 12V power is restored, access the infotainment or vehicle settings menu; some Renault-based EVs (Alpine uses Renault E-Tech platform) have a service/tow mode accessible via the touchscreen under vehicle settings.
- Alternatively, if the touchscreen is unresponsive, you may need to access the 12V battery (typically under the hood or in a front compartment) and connect a jump pack or charger, then use the electronic shifter to select Neutral.
- For flatbed towing: Alpine A290 must be flatbedded or dollied with drive wheels off the ground; do not tow with drive wheels on pavement even in Neutral.
With zero electrical power
With zero 12V power, the electronic shifter will not function. You must restore 12V power via jump-starting or external 12V source. Locate the 12V battery (likely in front compartment or under hood) and connect jumper cables or a portable jump starter. Once powered, use the electronic selector or access tow mode via the infotainment system.
⚡ EV / hybrid warning
WARNING: The Alpine A290 is a fully electric vehicle. Even in Neutral, the drive motor may remain mechanically connected. NEVER flat-tow this vehicle with wheels on the ground. Use a flatbed or trailer with all wheels off the pavement. Prolonged towing with wheels down can cause severe damage to the electric drive unit. Confirm tow mode is active if available before loading onto flatbed.