Cheaper Polestar 2 targets Tesla Model 3
THE Swedish-Chinese Polestar electric vehicle brand that launches in Australia in 2022 has released a new model that should slash its pricing and greatly increase its appeal.
It is a front-wheel drive version of the Polestar 2 mid-size fastback that comes in two battery pack sizes with pricing expected to rival the starting point for Australia’s most popular EV, the Tesla Model 3.
Announced in Europe overnight, the new Polestar 2s are priced from about 40,000 Euros to 60,000 Euros, which equates to a range between $62,500 to $94,000.
The cheapest Model 3 in Australia is the single motor rear-wheel drive $68,425 Standard Range Plus.
The front-wheel drive Polestar 2 kicks off with the Standard Range model, fitted with a 64kWh battery pack powering a 165kW/330Nm e-motor. The claimed range is 439km (WLTP).
The Long Range comes with a 78kWh battery from Dual Motor Polestar 2, boosting power to 170kW, but not lifting torque. The range is the big winner, climbing all the way to 539km and making this the version to have for hyper-milers.
Polestar is scheduled to launch in Australia in early 2022, with model range details and pricing confirmation expected shortly before then.
The 300kW/660Nm 528km range all-wheel drive Polestar 2 has been on-sale in selected markets since the second half of 2020.
“What we have successfully managed with the new versions is to avoid stripping the lower-priced models of their character and premium feeling,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO.
“Even the most affordable Polestar 2, with no optional equipment, has great visual consistency and high level of standard equipment.”
The various Polestar models will be basically indistinguishable externally, all versions coming with 19-inch wheels, LED light designs front and rear and frameless mirrors.
Inside there’s a new embossed textile upholstery that is a vegan material and is available in two colour executions, matched to new 3D-etched décor panels. Other notable standard features include high-performance audio with eight speakers, front- and rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and an Android Automotive OS-powered infotainment system with 11-inch centre display and 12.3-inch driver display.
A new Polestar app includes a digital key as standard. Over-the-air updates are also standard, which allows Polestar to release software updates to owners remotely on a regular basis.
The FWD models will gain access to Plus and Pilot packs, which were standard on the launch editon of the Polestar 2.
The Plus Pack includes a full-length panoramic glass roof, premium Harman Kardon audio system with 13 speakers, vegan WeaveTech upholstery, Black Ash deco panels, fully-electric heated front seats with memory, heated rear seats, steering wheel and wiper blades, and a new heat pump that reduces the need to use battery capacity to prepare and sustain the cabin climate.
The Pilot Pack includes Pixel LED headlights with LED front fog lights, adaptive cruise control and pilot assist, a 360-degree surround view camera, all-round parking sensors, blind spot information system with steering support, cross traffic alert with brake support, and rear collision warning.
A Performance Pack including adjustable Öhlins dampers, Brembo brakes, forged 20-inch alloy wheels and signature ‘Swedish gold’ details inside and out will continue to be offered only with the AWD Polestar 2.
