Polestar, the electric car brand owned by Volvo and Geely, has started production of its third model, the Polestar 3. The electric SUV is being made at a new factory in South Carolina, USA, where it will also be sold alongside other markets.
The Polestar 3 is a high-performance electric SUV that aims to compete with the likes of Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Audi e-tron. It is based on a new electric-only platform that will also underpin future Volvo and Geely models. The SUV will feature a dual-motor setup, a large battery pack, and an advanced infotainment system powered by Android Automotive OS.
Polestar 3 production starts ahead of schedule
According to Polestar, the production of the Polestar 3 started earlier than planned, thanks to the successful completion of the early test production phase. The company said that the test production helped to optimize the manufacturing process, validate the quality standards, and train the workforce.
The Polestar 3 is being produced at the Ridgeville plant, which is shared with Volvo Cars. The plant has been expanded and upgraded to accommodate the production of the electric SUV, which will be the first Polestar model to be made in the USA. The plant will also produce the next-generation Volvo XC90, which will have an electric version as well.
The Ridgeville plant is expected to have an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles, of which half will be allocated to Polestar. The plant will also create nearly 1,000 new jobs in the region, according to the company.