With the Precept at the IAA Mobility 2021, the Swedes have already given a foretaste of the upcoming design language of the new models. With the. Polestar O2 (vehicle is not for sale, homologation pending)² it is now more specific, although there are still no statements about a possible series production.
The Polestar O2 is primarily intended to attract emotional buyers with design and performance
The market would be ripe for a really emotional electric car. In the case of the O2, it is an open 2+2 seater that can be converted into a coupé with an electric hardtop. The new Polestar Cabrio knows how to inspire, especially in its sculptural form, which Polestar boss and former Volvo design boss Thomas Ingenlath says “looks incredible and would make the O2 the hero car of the brand.
A short front with a low-slung forehead, wide fenders, also at the rear, a slim waist and a crisp rear – ingredients that have represented something like the golden ratio in body design for decades – make the Polestar O2 even the toughest opponent of the E-mobility tasty.
800V architecture makes power up to 646 hp possible
Unlike the design, Polestar remains vague on the technical details. In the course of the last concepts, however, people often spoke of their own 800V architecture with motors that were also developed in-house and which should achieve an output of up to 475 kW, i.e. 646 hp. The battery pack will be located in the underbody of the bonded aluminum body structure and should have a capacity of more than 80 kWh.
Another advantage of the new composite body is its very high rigidity. Because the glued aluminum structure is not only light, but also extremely stable, which offers advantages in terms of the response behavior of the chassis and thus ensures high driving dynamics. Polestar promises driving fun for the O2 not only on the straights, but especially in curves. However, despite all the high-tech, you shouldn’t expect a lightweight. Despite all the measures, a weight below 1,750 kg seems unrealistic. Despite its name, the O2 is not an airy lightweight.
Sustainable interior with foams and recycled knit fibers
However, the interior is airy, at least in terms of material. Polestar already attaches great importance to the highest possible recycling rate in series cars 1 and 2 and is consistently pursuing this goal with the O2 as well. In the study, for example, recycled polyester is used almost exclusively, albeit in different states: foam, adhesive, knitted fiber and fleece lamination. According to a company spokesman, the goal of the circular economy would be within reach. Because that, the reduction of the CO2 footprint, is still Polestar’s first goal, despite all the emotionality.
Market launch and prices
The Swedes have not yet given precise technical data and consumption data for the Polestar O2 in the concept phase. However, the big impact of the new models can already be expected by the end of the year, at the latest by the 2023 open-air season. (Text: Fabian Mechtel | Pictures: Manufacturer)