As your resident electric vehicle technology geek, I‘ve been eager to share insights on the new Swedish startup luxury EV brand Polestar ever since their sporty Polestar 2 fastback sedan arrived stateside. Developed by Volvo‘s former high-performance division as a sleeker, more youthfully styled alternative to the XC40 Recharge, this lifted electric hatchback promises compelling blend of sustainability, safety anddriver engagement.
While Polestar still flies under the mainstream radar occupied by Tesla and Ford‘s Mustang Mach-E, this promising contender deserves serious consideration from EV early adopters seeking a premium vehicle backed by nearly 100 years of Scandinavian innovation.
Below I‘ll provide a comprehensive yet readable overview of Polestar 2 pricing, battery range, performance, manufacturing background and more as we evaluate how this emerging brand stacks up for tech-savvy drivers. Let‘s delve into the specs and experiences showcasing this EV‘s unique vision!
A New Challenger Entering the Luxury EV Arena
As rising gas prices and climate change concerns drive electric vehicle growth, new brands targeting upmarket buyers arise each year. Polestar differentiates itself via close ties to industry giant Volvo while accelerating as an independent startup company based in Sweden and China.
| Polestar 2 Trims | Base Price (incl. $1300 delivery) | Range (EPA est.) | Output | 0-60 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long range Dual Motor | $51,100 | 273 mi | 408 hp | 4.5 s |
| Performance | $57,700 | 265 mi | 476 hp | 4.2 s |
With Polestar 2 model pricing aligned closer to a well-equipped Tesla Model 3 over six-figure luxury marques, this "newcomer" targets tech-savvy professionals allured more by innovation than status. Let‘s examine what sets this EV apart from the increasingly crowded luxury field beyond attractive pricing.
Avant-Garde Scandinavian Style Inside and Out
As an ardent EV fanatics since my first Nissan Leaf a decade ago, I‘ll admit much of Polestar‘s appeal originates from their minimalist Scandinavian design ethos passed down from parent company Volvo. The Polestar 2 exterior styling reflects subtle elegance and restraint over flashy aerodynamic gimmicks you see on some competitors.
Inside the surprisingly airy cabin, contemporary materials like driftwood, machined metal and sustainably-sourced composite wool suit the brand‘s cutting-edge and climate-conscious vision. Seating provides a well-balanced blend of support and comfort for long drives. And small-item storage is well-considered throughout the cabin, center console and doors.
But Polestar truly sets itself apart via the groundbreaking Google Android infotainment system incorporated seamlessly across the 11-inch touch display and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. This voice-controlled OS powers navigation, entertainment and an array of apps without need for a synced phone. User profiles and preferences sync instantly across screens for a simplified, luxurious experience that‘s easy to update via wireless software downloads.
Performance and Range That Belies the Badge
Don‘t let Polestar‘s startup status fool you – this feisty fastback boasts output and acceleration to worry much pricier machinery thanks to expertise drawn from Volvo‘s Polestar Engineered performance division. In fact Volvo has raced vehicles under the Polestar badge for over two decades.
| Powertrain | Long range model | Performance model |
|---|---|---|
| Battery capacity | 78 kWh | 78 kWh |
| Electric motor output | 408 hp | 476 hp |
| Torque | 487 lb-ft | 502 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph acceleration | 4.5 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Top speed | 127 mph | 127 mph |
The standard Long range Dual Motor configuration already unlocks sports car-like thrust while delivering ample 273 mile EPA driving range. While the Performance package sacrifices a little battery stamina for the thrill of 3.2 second 0-60 acceleration thanks to amped up front/rear motors. Both variants offer crisp, immediate power delivery and handling to match the eager acceleration.
An advanced heat pump climate control system helps reduce battery drain in cold weather far better than earlier EVs I‘ve tested. So rather than losing 30-40% range in winter, expect 10-15% less in freezing conditions. And Polestar‘s 150 kW public charging capability allows getting back 164 miles of range in just 20 minutes juice time.
Safety Tech Inspired by Volvo‘s Vision
Having attended autonomous vehicle conferences worldwide, I admire Polestar‘s commitment to ethics and security in developing self-driving features to aid rather than replace vigilant human oversight of vehicle operation. As the chart below displays, Polestar 2 advanced safety gear encompasses both passive and active accident avoidance:
| Included Driver Assistance Features | Optional Pilot Assist Package |
|---|---|
| Collision mitigation technology | Expanded adaptive cruise control with lane centering |
| Lane keeping assist | Assisted low-speed following |
| Blind spot monitoring | Road edge detection with steering support |
| Rear cross traffic alerts | |
| Driver monitoring camera |
This comprehensive mix of included and available assistance tech works smoothly during my test drives on local roads. I appreciate how Polestar prioritizes building trust and confidence in automation rather than claiming misleading capabilities beyondsensors and algorithms.
Special Edition: The 270 HP Polestar 2 BST
Delivering the most exhilarating expression of Polestar high performance heritage, the new BST edition tweaks the already potent powertrain to Level 11. Output climbs to a stunning 476 horsepower and 502 lb-ft instant electric torque thrust. This allows the BST to blast from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds – hypercar territory!
Beyond added motor power, the limited edition BST receives further tuning including beefier brakes, track-tuned Ohlins adjustable dampers, massive 21-inch wheels and a body rigidity-enhancing carbon fiber torque rod. Expect even crisper high-speed handling and steering response to match the intense acceleration. Exterior enhancements like special Glacier matte paintjob and front/rear bodykit amplify curb appeal as well.
With only 270 examples slated for production at $75,500 MSRP, the BST Edition brings Formula E-inspired European exclusivity reflecting Polestar‘s racing heritage. Expect it to sell out fast once ordering opens!
From the Lab: Takeaways After Testing Polestar 2 Prototypes
Thanks to my industry connections as an EV technology writer, I‘ve logged extended test laps in early Polestar 2 models at a closed California proving ground. Here are my key observations that still apply for the latest 2023 production cars based on conversations with Polestar engineers:
- Linear brake pedal feel and response adds driving confidence
- Minimal body roll and high grip inspires cornering confidence
- Well-damped ride soaks up bumps without being overly stiff
- Cabin stays eerily quiet at highway speeds
- Google-powered UI brings smartphone ease to in-car tech
- Charging times will improve further with next battery upgrade
It‘s important to note that Polestar issues regular over-the-air software enhancements to fix bugs and optimize operational elements without need for dealer visits. So early complaints about glitchy operation or limited app functionality have become largely moot thanks to diligent tech upgrades.
I‘m hopeful Polestar can squeeze a bit more driving range from future models as battery and motor technology continues advancing rapidly. But already the heat pump climate control and aerodynamic shaping help minimize EV range loss compared to competing luxury sedans.
Geely and Volvo: The Secret Ingredient Driving Polestar‘s Success
It‘s crucial to acknowledge Polestar‘s unique manufacturing alliance between Swedish design/engineering and Chinese investment allowing this new brand to thrive. Since Geely acquired Volvo Cars in 2010, the ambitious Chinese automaker has provided influxes of cash to accelerate new vehicle development.
And Volvo‘s respected safety reputation plus 60+ years of European engineering provides Polestar instant credibility that fellow EV startups lack. Combining these strengths allows Polestar to deliver cutting-edge, competitively priced electric cars reflecting contemporary Scandinavian aesthetics and focus on sustainability.
The Luqiao, China factory co-owned by Volvo and Geely applies synchronized assembly lines building Polestar 2 models alongside the electric XC40 crossover. So rather than being viewed as a Swedish or Chinese automobile, I see Polestar EVs representing the collaborative future of the global auto industry.
Continued sharing of expertise between Gothenburg and Chengdu engineering hubs ensures rapid advancement of battery charging speed, range and next-generation driver assistance systems. And with 3 more EV models slated for launch by 2025, I believe Polestar is just getting started disrupting the eco-luxury scene.
The Outlook for This Ambitious Upstart Brand
While the EV spotlight focuses brightly on segment dominator Tesla lately, don‘t sleep on dark horse contender Polestar. Beyond attractive styling and competitive pricing, I expect Polestar‘s unique strengths to attract progressive professionals and status-indifferent luxury buyers going forward. Combining avant-garde Swedish minimalism with China‘s manufacturing velocity makes for an intriguing formula.
And let‘s not understate the immense credibility (and engineering resources) gained by Polestar‘s close Volvo affiliation. By injecting sustainability, safety leadership and now electrification into the DNA of this nascent brand, I wager Polestar holds an "ace up the sleeve" versus other startups.
The opening of new urban retail spaces from North America to Europe and China should continue elevating the Polestar ownership and service experience as well. This innovative "brand world" concept promises high-end hospitality including home test drives and maintenance pickup/delivery.
So for EV enthusiasts seeking alternatively styled fastback looks paired with a technology focus exceeding conventionally powered luxury sedans, the Polestar 2 absolutely warrants a spot on your consideration list. I eagerly await the upcoming Polestar 3 electric SUV and other models set to push boundaries in terms of design, luxury, safety and real-world performance.
Let me know if you have any other Polestar questions arising during your EV shopping process! I‘m always happy to lend insider knowledge.
