This all-electric new ‘O2’ concept from Polestar is sure to prompt a few sharp intakes of breath - because it’s set to ‘redefine sports roadsters for the electric age’.
In case you’ve been living under a rock, Polestar is a challenger brand jointly owned by Volvo and China’s Geely automotive giants.
Since 2019, Polestar has been producing what it describes as ‘pure play electric performance’ vehicles designed to be as thrilling as they are gentle on the planet.
The Polestar 1 is a 609 hp, carbon fibre hybrid GT, while the Polestar 2 electric fastback dials-down the performance while offering a range of 292 miles between charges.
Now Polestar has teased a brand new hard-top convertible roadster, which it’s calling the O2.
And with Polestar having an enviable reputation for translating concepts from the drawing board to the road, you wouldn’t bet against the O2 becoming a reality.
Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO, says:
“Polestar O2 is the hero car for our brand. It opens the door to our secret chamber of future potential. This is a taste of what we can design and engineer with the talent and technology we have in-house. It looks incredible, and being able to lower the roof and not hear an engine promises a superb sensation.”
So what do we know so far about the O2?
It’s built on a bespoke bonded aluminium platform, which has been adapted from the one being used in the Polestar 5 - an electric performance 4-door GT which is slated for launch in 2024.
A Polestar spokesperson adds:
“The high quality and rigidity of the bonded aluminium platform are geared towards heightened dynamic response. Handling dynamics are taut thanks also to small roll angles and high roll damping, and the agile, direct steering feel is linear, with great steering torque build-up.”
Aerodynamics are manipulated to maximise range, thanks to disguised design features like integrated ducts that improve air flow over the wheels and body sides, and the rear lights that function as air blades to reduce turbulence behind the car.
The interior of the O2 is also built with sustainability at the forefront of minds.
Recycled polyester is the sole material used for all the soft components of the cabin - from the foam and adhesive to the lamination. The idea is that by taking this approach, it simplifies the recycling process and reduces waste.
Elsewhere, all the different grades of aluminium have also been pre-labelled to make sure they can be recycled properly in the future.
And perhaps one of the most head-turning features of the O2 is that Polestar would like it to come complete with its own drone - which rises from the backseats and is capable of filming you driving off into the sunset!
An ambitious Polestar rep tells us:
“The drone operates autonomously, automatically following the car at speeds up to 90 km/h, and the driver can choose between an atmospheric sequence – great for a coastline cruise – or a more action-filled sequence with a sportier expression. After filming, the drone can autonomously return to the car. Video clips can be edited and shared directly from the 15-inch centre display when the car is parked.”
While we wait with baited breath for that to happen, the next thing you’re likely to see from Polestar is the Polestar 3 SUV, which is due to arrive later this year, followed by the Polestar 4 SUV coupe in 2023.
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