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.
Polestar 3 specifications and features
Polestar has not revealed the full specifications and features of the Polestar 3 yet, but it has given some hints about what to expect from the electric SUV. The company said that the Polestar 3 will have a sleek and aerodynamic design inspired by the Polestar Precept concept car. The SUV will also have a large panoramic glass roof and a vegan interior.
The Polestar 3 will be powered by two electric motors, one on each axle, providing all-wheel drive and high performance. The company has not disclosed the power output or the acceleration figures, but it has claimed that the SUV will have a long-range and a fast charging capability. The battery pack will be integrated into the floor of the vehicle, lowering the center of gravity and improving the handling.
The Polestar 3 will also feature an advanced infotainment system that will run on Android Automotive OS, a version of Google’s operating system designed for cars. The system will have a large touchscreen and a digital driver display, as well as Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. The system will also support over-the-air updates and personalization.
The Polestar 3 will also have a high level of safety and driver assistance features, as expected from a brand that is related to Volvo. The SUV will have a new generation of sensors, including lidar, radar, and cameras, that will enable semi-autonomous driving and collision avoidance. The SUV will also have a wireless phone charger, a premium sound system, and a hands-free tailgate.
Polestar 3 price and availability
Polestar has not announced the price of the Polestar 3 yet, but it is likely to be in the same range as its competitors, which start from around $50,000. The company has also not confirmed the exact launch date of the SUV, but it is expected to be available in the second half of 2024.
The Polestar 3 will be sold in several markets, including the USA, Canada, China, and Europe. The company said that it will offer the SUV through its online sales model and its physical retail spaces called Polestar Spaces. The company also said that it will provide flexible subscription options and attractive leasing deals for the SUV.
The Polestar 3 is the latest addition to the Polestar lineup, which currently consists of the Polestar 1, a plug-in hybrid coupe, and the Polestar 2, a fully electric sedan. The company said it plans to launch more models, including a smaller SUV and a sports car.
The Polestar 3 is a bold statement from the electric car brand, which aims to challenge the dominance of Tesla and other established automakers in the electric SUV segment. The SUV promises to deliver style, performance, technology, and sustainability while also being made in the USA. The Polestar 3 could be the breakthrough model for the brand, which hopes to become a global leader in the electric car industry.
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