Introduction
The Polestar 4 is the second SUV offering from the premium electric vehicle brand Polestar, a spin-off from Volvo. Positioned as a mid-size SUV, it slots between the Polestar 2 and 3 in terms of size. With a focus on design, performance, and sustainability, it aims to deliver a compelling package for discerning EV buyers.
Exterior Design
The Polestar 4 features a sleek and futuristic design language that sets it apart from traditional SUVs. Its low-slung stance and fastback silhouette give it a more coupe-like appearance, blurring the lines between SUV and sports sedan. The front end is characterized by Polestar’s signature ‘SmartZone’ grille and distinctive LED headlights with integrated ‘Thor’s Hammer’ daytime running lights. The sides feature flush door handles and frameless windows for a clean look. At the rear, the Polestar 4 sports a full-width light bar and an integrated rear spoiler, further enhancing its aerodynamic profile.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Polestar 4 continues the brand’s minimalist and sustainable design ethos. The cabin features a driver-focused layout with a 15.4-inch landscape touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster. Polestar’s proprietary Android Automotive OS, developed in collaboration with Meizu, offers seamless connectivity and a user-friendly interface. The Polestar 4 also introduces a unique ‘Panoramic Roof with Rear Tint’ feature, which extends the glass roof over the rear seats for an open and airy feel.
Performance and Handling
Polestar has a reputation for delivering exceptional performance, and the Polestar 4 is no exception. It is available with either a single-motor rear-wheel-drive configuration or a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup. The top-spec dual-motor variant produces an impressive 400 kW (544 hp) and 686 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.8 seconds. The Polestar 4 also features advanced chassis technologies, including an optional Öhlins dual-flow valve damper system and Brembo brakes, for precise handling and stopping power.
Battery and Range
The Polestar 4 is equipped with a high-performance battery pack supplied by CATL, utilizing NCM 811 lithium-ion cells for improved energy density. Depending on the configuration, the battery capacity ranges from 107.8 kWh to 111.0 kWh, offering an estimated range of up to 600 km (WLTP cycle) . Polestar has also implemented advanced thermal management systems and regenerative braking to maximize efficiency and range.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a top priority for Polestar, and the Polestar 4 features a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). It is equipped with Mobileye’s EyeQ5H system, which includes 12 cameras, 5 radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors for 360-degree coverage. This system enables features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Polestar 4 boasts a high-strength steel body structure and advanced crash protection systems.
Sustainability and Life Cycle Assessment
Polestar is committed to sustainability, and the Polestar 4 is no exception. The company has released a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) report for the vehicle, highlighting its efforts to minimize environmental impact throughout its lifecycle. The Polestar 4 features sustainable materials in its interior, such as recycled plastics and textiles, and the company aims to offset the vehicle’s carbon footprint through various initiatives.
Pricing and Availability
The Polestar 4 is expected to be available for pre-order in 2024, with deliveries commencing in 2025. Pricing for the UK market is expected to start around £45,000 for the base single-motor variant, with the top-spec dual-motor version likely to cost around £60,000.
Conclusion
The Polestar 4 represents a compelling offering in the premium electric SUV segment, combining striking design, impressive performance, and a focus on sustainability. With its cutting-edge technology, advanced driver assistance features, and commitment to minimizing environmental impact, the Polestar 4 is poised to attract discerning buyers seeking a premium and eco-friendly driving experience.
Technical challenges
| Aerodynamic Design | Optimising the aerodynamic profile of the Polestar 4 to enhance efficiency and range through features like a low-slung stance, flush door handles, frameless windows, and an integrated rear spoiler. |
| Battery Technology | Improving battery energy density, charging speed, and thermal management to extend the Polestar 4’s range and performance capabilities. |
| Autonomous Driving | Developing advanced autonomous driving systems with high-precision sensors, powerful computing, and robust algorithms to enable safe and reliable self-driving capabilities. |
| Sustainable Materials | Incorporating sustainable and recycled materials in the Polestar 4’s construction to reduce its environmental impact and align with the brand’s commitment to sustainability. |
| Infotainment Integration | Seamlessly integrating the Polestar 4’s infotainment system with smartphones and other devices, enabling seamless connectivity and a personalised user experience. |
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