Polestar to launch 3 SUV in October

SWEDISH electric performance-car maker Polestar has announced that it will introduce its next car – the Polestar 3 battery-electric SUV – in October this year.

The Gothenburg-based firm’s first SUV is expected to be highly popular in markets where SUV sales outstrip those of passenger cars, including Australia and the United States.

Polestar says that the new model will ultimately offer autonomous highway driving via best-in-class LIDAR-based Luminar sensors and NVIDIA computing power; the Swedish marque also promises that the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive and five-seat Polestar 3 SUV will be equipped with “large battery” and offer a “range target of over 600km (WLTP)”.

The undisguised image of the Polestar 3 shows that the SUV’s exterior cues are derived from those of the Polestar 2, with hints of the Volvo XC40 also in the mix. Based on the underpinnings with the next-gen XC90, the Polestar 3 features a rakish roofline, rising shoulder line, exaggerated front and rear guards and a distinctive tailgate-top spoiler.

Aerodynamic flourishes are also apparent on the SUV’s bonnet, as well as its front and rear bumpers. The image supplied also depicts a panoramic glass roof and large brake calipers, both familiar to the Polestar 2 Dual Motor Long Range.

“Polestar 3 is the SUV for the electric age. Our design identity evolves with this high-end, large luxury EV, with a strong, individual brand character,” said Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath.

“With this car, we bring the ‘sport’ back to the SUV, staying true to our performance roots. This is a major milestone for our company, one that boost our growth trajectory and takes us into our next phase.”

Polestar says the 3 will be available to order in initial launch markets from the day of the premiere (in October) with production slated to commence in the firm’s Chinese and US factories from “early 2023”.

The Chinese-Swedish company says it plans to launch a new car every year for the next three years, beginning with the Polestar 3, and aims to increase its presence to at least 30 global markets by the end of next year.

The company plans to grow its global sales ten-fold – from approximately 29,000 in 2021, to over 290,000 by the end of 2025. By that time, Polestar will have various model lines, including the updated Polestar 2 coupe-sedan, Polestar 3 SUV and Polestar O2 coupe-roadster, available for purchase via the company’s online portal.

Inspired by the Precept concept car, the Polestar O2 demonstrates how the brand’s evolving design language can be adapted to different body styles without diverging from the familial look.

The low and wide body (with an assertive stance, compact 2+2 cabin design, minimal overhangs and a long wheelbase), exude classic sportscar proportions, but with a modern, electric feel.

“Polestar O2 is the hero car for our brand,” said Mr Ingenlath. “This is a taste of what we can design and engineer with the talent and technology we have in house. Being able to lower the roof and not hear an engine promises (to be) a superb sensation.”

Polestar Australia will announce further information on the Polestar 3 for the local market – including pricing and specifications – closer to the model’s Australian launch.