2023-09-08 16:00:00
Generally speaking, the Polestar 2 sedan is not completely redesigned for the 2024 model year. The fact remains that significant changes will be made to the model. These are not immediately apparent to the untrained eye. But they are still significant.
Compared to the 2023 Polestar 2, model year 2024 units now have more range (+80 km for single-motor model; +25 km for dual-motor model), more power and more of torque.
The single-motor Polestar 2 receives an additional 50 kilowatts (68 horsepower) for increased power to 220 kW (299 hp). Torque, meanwhile, increases from 330 to 489 newton meters, a gain of 159 Nm (118 pound-feet).
Above all, the main change is the transition from (front) traction to propulsion for the single electric motor model.
For those concerned regarding driving a rear-wheel drive electric vehicle in winter, it is important to understand that the weight distribution differs from that of an equivalent model with a combustion engine. The weight of the batteries is shared over a larger part of the vehicle.
Which makes the people at Polestar say that if the 2 is equipped with good winter tires, winter driving can be done without problem. In any case, the 140 kilometers traveled with a rear-wheel drive Polestar 2 on the winding roads between Denver and Estes Park, Colorado, were swallowed up with ease and maneuverability worthy of all-wheel drive. What we saw on the way back with a dual-motor unit.
Especially since Polestar grants a “bias” at the rear on its all-wheel drive models. Which means that the distribution of power and torque is carried towards the rear. Which adds dynamism to the whole.
New grille
However, the most obvious modification on the 2024 model, the one that will make someone say: “That’s a 2024 Polestar 2!” ”, it is undoubtedly its grille.
The reason is very simple, according to Polestar. The SmartZone which houses a front camera and a mid-range radar, introduced with the arrival of the next Polestar 3 model. Gone is the false grille. And we must admit that the new look is not bad at all.
Revised prices
The automaker offers its Polestar 2 sedan at a retail price that starts at $54,950 for the single-engine. By adding $8,000 (at $62,950), the buyer can obtain all-wheel drive powered by two electric motors and available with the Pilot Pack as standard equipment. This was an option offered at $4700 previously.
Transportation and preparation costs are $2,500. Thanks to its price list, the Polestar 2, both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, is eligible for two government rebates, one of $5,000 from the federal government and the other of $7,000 from Quebec (applicable following fees and taxes). .
Other models coming very soon
This presentation of the new Polestar 2 in Denver was also an opportunity for the manufacturer to say more regarding the models coming soon to its catalog.
In the not too distant future, expect to see at least four more Polestar models appear. First, the Polestar 3 luxury SUV made its Canadian premiere at the Fully Charged Show in Vancouver, which takes place from September 8 to 10.
The manufacturer offers this SUV at a starting price of $97,400. Orders were opened in October 2022 for this vehicle whose autonomy would exceed 500 km.
Next will come the Polestar 4, which is a sports SUV, whose selling price will be higher than that of the Polestar 2, but lower than that of the 3. Gregor Hembrough, CEO of Polestar America, predicted a price of US$60,000 ( approximately $82,000). The release is planned for next year.
Then two more models will follow. They were designed and developed in the manufacturer’s MIRA research center in the United Kingdom. The Polestar 5 will be a four-door luxury GT sports car, priced at US$100,000 (approximately $137,000). Finally, the Polestar 6 will take the form of a 2+2 roadster, priced at more than US$150,000 ($205,000).
So far, Polestar has already produced more than 150,000 units and its goal for this year is to produce more than 60,000 worldwide.
The manufacturer promotes online sales and delivery in its Spaces which look more like stores with a few vehicles inside. “You won’t see 50 cars in a Polestar Space waiting to be purchased,” Mr. Hembrough said. “Also, we are capitalizing on this market [du véhicule électrique] and in this fast-growing segment. »
Remember that Polestar was founded in 1996 as a racing company and official partner of Volvo in the performance aspect of the Swedish manufacturer. Polestar held this role until 2015. That year, the Polestar 1 and 2 concepts were revealed.
According to the CEO, his company represents the “best of both worlds”. “We benefit from the stability and well-established foundation of a serious manufacturer, Volvo, with the agility of a young company,” he concludes.
Transportation and accommodation costs related to this report were paid by Polestar.
(Images: Paul-Robert Raymond and Polestar; editor: Frédéric Matte)
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