Polestar, the Gothenburg based high-end performance and electric car manufacturer jointly owned by Volvo Car Group and Zhejiang Geely Holding has today revealed the Polestar 2 – a mid-sized family saloon pitted against the entry level Tesla Model 3.
Following the 2017 launch of its low-volume Electric Performance Hybrid GT – Polestar 1 which boasted an electric-only range of 93 miles (150 km) – the longest of any hybrid car in the world at the time. Polestar has unreservedly targeted Tesla’s Model 3 with their first all-electric model, the all-electric Polestar 2 fastback, which is to be produced at much higher volumes for a broader audience. Polestars barrage on Tesla doesn’t stop there, the company aims to expand its offering in the near future with a fully electric performance SUV called the (you guessed it) Polestar 3.
With premium features, avante-garde styling, five doors, two electric motors, a 78 kWh battery with a range of over 310 miles and a starting guide price of around £35,000, the Polestar 2 is sure to be as desirable as the Tesla Model 3 which has seen demand outstrip supply with some customers having to wait between 12-18 months for delivery.
If you’d like to jump on the early bird bandwagon, the Polestar 2 “launch edition”* at a guide price north of £50,000 will be the only model avaialable during the first 12 months of production which will begin in 2020. Current UK delivery estimate for orders placed today is July 2020.
* Launch edition models usually come loaded with most if not all available upgrade options for the model with an added touch of unique styling elements to make them more distinguishable.
Performance
The all-wheel drive electric powertrain in Polestar 2 produces 408 hp (300 kW) and 487 lb-ft (660 Nm) of torque which translates to a silver medal 0-60 mph sprint of around 4.8 seconds.
Based on Volvo Car Group’s adaptable Compact Modular Architecture platform (CMA). The 27-module battery pack is integrated into the floor and contributes to the rigidity of the chassis as well as improves the car’s noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels with road noise reduced by 3.7 dB compared to a traditional chassis.
The standard dynamic chassis can be enhanced by the Performance Pack that improves driving dynamics with Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes and unique 20-inch forged wheels. Polestar’s eye catching signature gold seat belts, brake callipers and valve caps complete the performance visuals.
Technology
Highlighting the technology spearhead role that Polestar plays within the Volvo Car Group, Polestar 2 comes with a host of technology including Pixel LED headlights and proximity lighting which enable a unique welcome sequence, Polestar’s now-signature frameless side mirrors and the unique illuminated Polestar logo, which is reflected onto the car’s panoramic glass roof.
The Polestar 2 also features an Android powered infotainment system providing a solid and adaptable digital environment for apps and vehicle functions to coexist. It brings brings embedded Google services to a car for the first time – including the Google Assistant, Google Maps with support for electric vehicles and the Google Play Store via a new 11-inch touch screen display.
Phone-as-Key technology enables car sharing and a more integrated ownership experience, as well as Polestar’s connected services such as pick-up and delivery. It also allows Polestar 2 to sense the driver upon approach. Smart features like enlarged graphics in the instrument cluster allow the driver to easily see the charging status and range before entering the car. Polestar 2 can also predetermine the driver’s next move to create a seamless experience with a prepared cabin and quick start sequence.
Availability
Production of the Polestar 2 is set to begin in 2020 and in common with all Polestar cars, Polestar 2 will only be available for ordering online with the company already taking Pre-orders for a £1,000 deposit with estimated delivery of July 2020 for UK orders placed today.
If you’d like to physically inspect the vegan interior to make sure it’s up to one’s standards before parting with your money, Polestar will be opening spaces that will provide physical viewing and test drive opportunities.
The Polestar 2 will also be making its first public appearance at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show in March, and then embarking on a global roadshow in Europe, North America and China throughout 2019.
