Polestar introduces rear-wheel drive 3

POLESTAR has announced the introduction of a Long Range Single Motor version of its Polestar 3 SUV the same week first customer deliveries of the brand’s all-electric SUV commence.

Available in Europe from €79,890 ($128,735), the Polestar 3 Long Range Single Motor will be available in markets including Australia from the end of 2024, giving Polestar customers what CEO Thomas Ingenlath says is another way to get behind the ‘wheel.

“With the Long Range Single Motor Polestar 3 we offer consumers a new entry-point for our flagship electric SUV. The rear-wheel drive configuration fits with our performance focused driving dynamics that make the car stand out in the luxury SUV sector,” he said.

The entry-level Polestar 3 will be built in China and the United States and utilises the same 111kWh battery pack as the Dual Motor version, offering the same 250kW (DC) peak charging capability for a claimed 10-80 per cent recharge time of 30 minutes.

Range for the new variant is listed at 650km (WLTP).

Power comes from a rear axle-mounted electric motor producing 220kW of power and 490Nm of torque. Polestar says the output is sufficient to accelerate the rear-drive 3 from standstill to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds.

The model carries the same Brembo braking package and suspension arrangement found elsewhere in the range.

Buyers may choose from six paint colours, five interior “rooms” and four wheel options, including the 21-inch alloy wheel available as part of the new Pro Pack.

As is the case with the remainder of the MY25 Polestar 3 range, Polestar’s Pilot Pack with LiDAR is now also available to order.

The news comes at the same time Polestar begins customer deliveries of the Polestar 3, with initial vehicles to be handed over to purchasers across two continents in the coming days.

“This is an important milestone – first deliveries of Polestar 3 to our customers,” said Mr Ingenlath.

“Test drives start at all Polestar Spaces this coming weekend in Europe. Thousands of hand-raisers are invited to experience our great, luxurious performance SUV. Polestar is becoming a global player with the most attractive electric product range.”

Polestar says deliveries of the ‘3’ will accelerate over the coming months, helping it to meet strong demand.

“We always knew the Polestar 3 was going to be popular, but even we were blown away by the global media’s reviews and the response to opening up test drive bookings,” said Polestar global head of communications Kristian Elvefors.

“It’s a testament to the excitement in the market for this car and customer interest to get behind the wheel of our flagship electric SUV.”