Summary
- The Polestar 2 electric vehicle will have a direct successor by the end of the decade
- The Polestar 2 will not be replaced by the new Polestar 7 small SUV
- The current-generation Polestar 2 will remain in production until the redesigned model arrives
- The redesigned model will use a new architecture and be built in Europe
- Future Europe-built Polestar 2 would be easier to import and sell at a viable price in the U.S.
Article
Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller recently confirmed in an interview with Autocar that a direct successor to the Polestar 2 electric vehicle is in the works and will be released towards the end of the decade. Despite the recent announcement of the Polestar 7 small SUV, Lohscheller stated that the new model will not replace the Polestar 2, but will instead join the lineup alongside the Polestar 3 and 4 SUVs, the Polestar 5 fastback, and the Polestar 6 sports car, aiming for a six-model lineup.
The current-generation Polestar 2, which was reduced to one configuration for the 2025 model year, will remain in the lineup until the redesigned model arrives. This new model will utilize a new architecture debuting with the Polestar 7 and will serve as the basis for all future Polestar models. The exact release date for the redesigned Polestar 2 has not been announced yet, but it is expected to arrive sometime after the Polestar 7.
While the current Polestar 2 is assembled in China, reports suggest that the redesigned model will be built in Europe, possibly at Geely’s new plant in Slovakia. This move would make U.S. importation easier, particularly if the Trump Administration enacts steeper tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. A Europe-built Polestar 2 would require less effort to sell at a commercially-viable price in the U.S. compared to the originally planned Polestar 4, which was intended to be produced in China before shifting production to a Renault plant in South Korea.
The decision to manufacture the new Polestar 2 in Europe could potentially simplify the process of bringing the model to the U.S. market. By moving production to a European location, Polestar may be able to avoid additional tariffs on Chinese-made EVs implemented by the Biden Administration. This strategic move may also help Polestar to establish a more stable and efficient supply chain for its electric vehicles, ensuring greater accessibility for customers in key markets such as the U.S.
The shift towards manufacturing the Polestar 2 in Europe reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its production capabilities and optimizing its global supply chain. By leveraging parent company Geely’s established manufacturing facilities in Slovakia, Polestar can enhance efficiency and quality control for its electric vehicles. This strategic decision underscores Polestar’s dedication to delivering innovative, high-performance EVs to consumers worldwide, while adapting to evolving market conditions and regulatory requirements.
Overall, the upcoming release of the redesigned Polestar 2 signifies the brand’s ongoing commitment to innovation and sustainability in the electric vehicle market. With a new architecture and production location, Polestar aims to enhance the performance, design, and accessibility of its electric vehicles for customers around the world. By expanding its lineup and diversifying its manufacturing footprint, Polestar is poised to strengthen its position as a leading player in the EV industry, offering cutting-edge technology and premium electric vehicles that set new standards for sustainability and performance.
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