AFTER launching as its personal model as an offshoot from guardian firm Volvo in mid-2017, EV marque Polestar has introduced it’s planning to formally launch in Australia and New Zealand later this yr.
The Chinese language-owned Swedish model has additionally introduced it will likely be launching in three different Asia-Pacific markets this yr – South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong, which can mark a big enlargement for the model that originally launched in China, North America and Europe.
For Australia, the model is at the moment establishing native gross sales items impartial of Volvo’s operations, whereas New Zealand will “possible” use an importer mannequin, with native companions to be locked in later down the observe.
Samantha Johnson has been appointed as managing director of Polestar Australia, who beforehand held the place of director of enterprise management, monetary companies and digital transformation for Volvo Australia, and earlier than that, held a wide range of roles throughout a 10-year stint with Harley-Davidson Australia/New Zealand.
Polestar head of China and Asia Pacific areas Nathan Forshaw mentioned progress was underway for the enlargement into new markets.
“Particular roll-out timing is at a complicated strategy planning stage and the recruitment of key people has begun,” he mentioned.
“Whereas we’re rising quickly, we’re making certain each our organisation and processes guarantee a constant and really Polestar expertise for our clients, wherever they’re primarily based.”
Whereas mannequin specs and pricing are but to be introduced, the most probably starter for Australia would be the Polestar 2 all-electric fastback sedan, which might most probably enter the market as a competitor for the likes of the Tesla Mannequin 3.
The Polestar 2 is powered by a pair of electrical motors and a 78kWh, 27-module battery pack able to an output of 300kW/660Nm, which supplies a sub-5.0-second dash time.
Driving vary is pegged at 470km on the WLTP cycle.
Polestar’s first-ever mannequin, the Polestar 1 hybrid GT automotive, won’t be making it to Australia given its non-availability in right-hand drive.
The following mannequin to launch would be the as-yet-unrevealed Polestar 3 electrical SUV, adopted by a brand new mannequin previewed by the Principle EV idea uncovered final yr.
Designed as a swoopy fastback sedan, the Principle has not had any powertrain particulars revealed however is described by Polestar as “a manifesto of issues to return; a declaration” when it comes to the model’s future path.
Extra Australia-specific particulars together with Polestar 2 pricing and specification shall be revealed at a later date, forward of the model’s launch Down Below earlier than yr’s finish.
