Redefining Automotive Design: The Polestar 4, Europe's Pioneering Rear-Windowless Electric Vehicle

The automotive landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the relentless pursuit of innovation and the growing embrace of electric vehicles (EVs). Amidst this dynamic evolutionary journey, Polestar, a Swedish electric vehicle manufacturer, has emerged as a beacon of progress, unveiling the Polestar 4 - Europe's first electric car without a rear window. This groundbreaking innovation marks a significant departure from conventional automotive design and sets a new standard for sustainable mobility.

Summary:

Unveiled at the start of last year, the new Polestar 4 is finally starting its marketing in Europe, starting at 63,200 euros. Several versions will be offered for the SUV coupe without rear window, which hunts in the lands of the Tesla Model Y, but not only.

Founded in 1996, Polestar was originally an independent tuner and competition team, which was then bought by Volvo in 2015. A few years later, in 2018, the firm finally became independent, becoming a real brand of its own. whole. But this did not happen as easily as expected, due to a conflict with Citroën.

A new Tesla cruncher

Since then, things have fortunately improved, and Polestar now has authorization to sell its cars in France, which it still does not do. But this should change over the coming years, especially as its range continues to expand. And for good reason, after the Polestar 1, Polestar 2, and Polestar 3, it is the turn of the Polestar 4 to expand the catalog of the firm based in Gothenburg, in the same Swedish city as Volvo.

It was at the beginning of last year that this new 100% electric SUV coupe was officially unveiled. And a little less than a year later, it is finally time for the latter to arrive in the manufacturer's showrooms around the world. This will soon be the case, while orders have indeed opened, as Polestar announces in a press release just published. But you will still have to be patient before you can get behind the wheel and see it on the roads.

Indeed, production of the SUV coupe has already started in China for local customers, but the first European deliveries will begin next August. And good news, we already know the price of this new arrival in the catalog, which notably aims to go hunting in the lands of the Tesla Model Y. The entry-level version with a single engine of 272 horsepower and 343 Nm on the rear axle starts from 63,200 euros.

A price which is valid for the German market, but which should remain quite close to us. For the long-range two-motor variant, which claims 544 horsepower and 686 Nm of torque, it costs 71,200 euros. High prices compared to the 42,990 euros of the Tesla Model Y. Especially since the Polestar 4 will not be eligible for the ecological bonus if it is sold in France, since it is produced in China, in the Hangzhou Bay.

Embracing Aerodynamic Excellence: A Rear-Windowless Revolution

At the heart of the Polestar 4's design lies its revolutionary rear-windowless concept. This unconventional design choice, far from being merely a stylistic statement, represents a bold step forward in automotive engineering. The absence of a rear window eliminates a significant aerodynamic obstruction, allowing for a streamlined design that significantly enhances the car's efficiency and range.

Traditionally, rear windows have played a crucial role in providing drivers with a clear view of their surroundings. However, the Polestar 4's rear-windowless design necessitates the adoption of innovative alternative visibility solutions. This challenge has been met with ingenuity, as the Polestar 4 employs a sophisticated suite of cameras and sensors to provide a comprehensive view of the rear environment.

These cameras continuously capture real-time video feeds, which are then seamlessly integrated into the car's interior displays. This integrated system, known as the Digital Rearview Mirror (DRM), eliminates the need for a conventional rearview mirror while maintaining exceptional visibility. The DRM system offers several advantages over traditional rearview mirrors, including a wider field of view, improved night vision, and enhanced resistance to dirt and debris.

The Polestar 4's rear-windowless design is not merely a matter of form over function; it is a testament to the company's commitment to sustainability. By eliminating the rear window, Polestar has reduced the vehicle's overall weight, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. This commitment to sustainability aligns with Polestar's broader vision of creating a future of zero-emission mobility.

Power and Efficiency: A Performance-Driven Electric Vehicle

The Polestar 4's powertrain further underscores its revolutionary nature. The car is equipped with a dual-motor setup that generates a substantial 487 horsepower, enabling it to achieve an exhilarating acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. This impressive performance is complemented by a long-range battery pack, which can deliver up to 300 miles on a single charge.

The combination of powerful performance and long-range capability makes the Polestar 4 an ideal choice for drivers seeking a dynamic and eco-conscious driving experience. The car's range is further enhanced by its aerodynamic design, which minimizes drag and reduces energy consumption.

The Polestar 4's focus on efficiency aligns perfectly with Polestar's commitment to sustainability. The company is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainable mobility practices. The Polestar 4 represents a significant step forward in this endeavor, demonstrating that performance and sustainability can coexist seamlessly.

Elevating Luxury to New Heights: A Seamless Blend of Style and Comfort

Despite its cutting-edge technology and performance-oriented powertrain, the Polestar 4 does not compromise on luxury. The interior is crafted with premium materials that exude sophistication and elegance. The minimalist design prioritizes comfort and functionality, while the driver-centric cockpit provides an intuitive and engaging driving experience.

The spacious cabin comfortably accommodates five passengers, ensuring that every occupant enjoys ample legroom, headroom, and shoulder room. The high-quality materials, including Nappa leather and sustainable wood accents, create an atmosphere of luxury and refinement.

The Polestar 4's interior is not merely a place to travel; it is a sanctuary of comfort and style. The car's thoughtful design, coupled with its premium materials and advanced technology, elevates the driving experience to new heights.

A Symbol of Innovation and Progress: Setting the Stage for the Future

The arrival of the Polestar 4 in Europe marks a significant milestone in the evolution of electric vehicles. Its groundbreaking rear-windowless design, powerful performance, and luxurious interior set a new benchmark for EVs. The car's innovative spirit and commitment to sustainability inspire a vision of a future where mobility is both stylish and ecologically responsible.

The Polestar 4 is not merely a car; it is a symbol of innovation and progress. It represents the company's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering. With its cutting-edge technology, luxurious interior, and focus on sustainability, the Polestar 4 is poised to redefine the concept of electric vehicles and set the stage for a sustainable and stylish future of mobility.

An astonishing specificity

In total, two versions are available in the range of this new electric SUV, which could also compete with the recently tested BYD Seal U as well as the BMW iX3, among others, not to mention the Volvo C40, which remains its technical cousin. The Polestar 4 is based on the SEA platform developed by the Geely group and shared with the Smart #1 or the Zeekr 001, among others. Under its floor, we find a single 100 kWh battery, which partly explains its high price.

Because we know that the accumulator represents around 40% of the total cost of an electric car. The latter allows the SUV to travel up to 610 kilometers according to the European WLTP cycle. The vehicle is compatible with fast charging of up to 200 kW DC, while the time required to fill the battery has not been announced. In AC power, power peaks at 22 kW, and the SUV also features V2L bi-directional charging. Which allows it to power electronic devices directly via its charging socket.

The heat pump comes standard, while the car is compatible with OTA remote updates. On board, it uses Android Automotive and is equipped with Google Maps and Google Assistant, among others. 4.84 meters long, 2.14 meters wide, and 1.53 meters high, the SUV ignores the rear window and is equipped with a camera rear-view mirror. Space on board should be generous thanks to the 3.0-meter-long wheelbase, which can accommodate up to five people.

Note that several equipment packs will also be offered for this Polestar 4, offering a sportier design as well as new features. The Pilot Pack notably adds Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving while the Plus Pack includes heated and massaging seats. It now remains to be seen whether the SUV will finally be marketed in France!