POLESTAR 3′ UNIQUE UNVEILING IN MONTRÉAL

(Article published in L’Automobile Mechanic magazine, December 2023)

By Piero Facchin

Scandinavian manufacturer Polestar, which produces all-electric models, struck a chord in Montréal with the unveiling of the all-new Polestar 3, which took place in the vast event space of Cirque Éloize.

To the sound of an electronic harp, played by a Cirque Éloize musician, guests were welcomed to this unique evening. The Polestar 3, a SUV powered by 111 kWh batteries, is very elegant and doesn’t necessarily follow all the design trends that many other manufacturers offer, i.e., many curvaceous lines. Well-thought-out details help to make it more aerodynamic, such as this hidden spoiler at the junction of the front hood and grille, designed to reduce turbulence and provide an improved drag coefficient.

Quebecers, Pioneers in the Adoption of Electric Vehicles

Hugues Bissonnette, General Manager of Polestar Canada, was particularly proud at the event: “Quebecers have been pioneers in the adoption of electric vehicles, and our brand is no exception. Québec is an excellent market for Polestar.”

A giant screen displayed all the distinctive features of the Polestar 3, while the vehicle, draped in semitransparent black fabric, revealed only the shape of its headlights, which bear the manufacturer’s typical signature reminiscent of Thor’s hammer. With its own identity, the Polestar 3 is a natural evolution of the Polestar 2 sedan.

Our impressions of the interior are that it is very spacious: as much for front passengers, if not more for those sitting in the back, even though the roofline of this SUV adopts a “coupé” style.

Concern for the Environment

Concern for the environment is at the heart of all Polestar decision-making when it comes to vehicle production and showroom design. Mr. Bissonnette explains: “In the vehicles, you can see the distinctive Scandinavian design, which can also be seen in our commercial spaces. The Montréal area dealership was the first in North America to use recycled containers for its temporary showroom, while the new one was under construction. The goal with the new Laval facility is to achieve LEED certification, reinforcing Polestar’s eco-responsible side.”

This quest for eco-responsibility extends to all areas of the company, and even applies with suppliers and partners. “We look beyond that. We dig deeper to make sure their processes align with our values in terms of respect for nature and the environment.”

The launch model is offered with two electric motors that deliver 489 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque for an estimated WLTP range of 610 km. With a starting price of $97,400, the Polestar 3 will be available on the local market from May 2024.

In addition to the Polestar 3, Mr. Bissonnette confirms that the order book for the Polestar 4, expected in dealerships in late 2024, will open sometime next year. The brand’s second SUV will be smaller than its predecessor.