Economy

Polestar 2 Joins The List Of Wannabe Tesla Model 3 Killers

March 02, 2019 01:34·
Polestar 2

Polestar 2

We're very curious to see how that works because Volvo is only one of several brands that have signed on with Google to use this new system, Audi being one of them.

The Polestar 2 has been unveiled as "the next step" in the development of the Volvo-backed electric performance brand, following the reveal of the hybrid Polestar 1 back in October 2017. But the slightly crossover-like stance and a raked D-pillar make it appear quirky.

The five-door fastback is powered by two electric motors.

It is expected to drive 500 kilometers (275 miles) on a single charge thanks to a 78-kilowatt-hour battery (72 kWh for the Chinese market) integrated into the floor. Polestar claims that the road noise has been reduced by 3.7 dB compared to a traditional chassis. Power sent to two motors means that the 2 has an all-wheel-drive electric powertrain with a combined power output of 300 kW (408bhp) and 660 Nm. According to Polestar, the 2 can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 5 seconds flat, which might actually put its 0-60 miles per hour (96 km/h) time somewhere near the dual-motor Model 3's, which is 4.5 seconds. Customers will further be able to opt for a performance pack which includes Ohlins dampers, Brembo brakes and 20-inch forged wheels. Polestar's signature gold seat belts, brake callipers and valve caps are also present.

It's called the Polestar 2 and it's the sub-brand's first volume vehicle, priced from around $45,000, although buyers will also be able to purchase a Launch Edition spec for the first 12 months, which will cost them some $63,000 in the USA, not including government incentives.

Tesla shutting stores to deliver a US$35k Model 3
The new sales strategy is a dramatic shift for the company that has prided itself on its boutique retail stores. Tesla introduced the Model 3 in 2017 as a more affordable way for consumers to purchase its electric cars.

"Here in Europe, and in the U.S. as well, Google Maps is a great system to use for navigation but if you like something else, Waze or whatever, you can use that as an app and it will run seamlessly just like Google Maps", Ingenlath said.

This capability also allows Polestar to tailor its infotainment system to the requirements of specific markets such as China where Google Maps is not available. Prices start at 39,900 Euros (Rs 32.13 lakh), while the "launch edition" variant will cost a cool 59,900 Euros (Rs 48.23 lakh).

Production of the electric auto in both right and left-hand-drive versions is to start in 2020 in southeast China, according to the automaker.

While initial launch markets include China, the United States, Canada, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom, Polestar says other markets are "under consideration for future expansion".

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