Polestar is gearing up to expand beyond the automotive sector by launching a smartphone alongside its upcoming Polestar 4. This unique move comes as Polestar aims to strengthen its presence in the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market, where tech-savvy consumers crave cutting-edge features.
The Polestar 4 is scheduled to begin production this year, with deliveries expected before the end of 2023, but only in the Chinese market at first. However, Polestar won’t just be launching a new car, the fourth in its lineup, but also a Polestar-branded smartphone through a partnership with Chinese smartphone maker Xingji Meizu, owned by automaker Geely.
Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar, revealed the news of a smartphone in an interview with CNBC, who said the phone will be a “premium” device that will work seamlessly with the car.
“Where you have an opportunity to link these two worlds, without any border … then you can really have a seamless transition,” Ingenlath said.
This initiative enables Polestar to bundle software, apps, services, and features that enhance the overall driving experience, such as remote car control via the smartphone. It also provides invaluable insights into customer habits, allowing carmakers to tailor their offerings more effectively.
While it may seem unusual for an automaker to venture into the smartphone market, Polestar’s move reflects a broader industry trend. Chinese EV start-up Nio is set to launch its own self-developed mobile phone, showcasing the growing convergence of automotive and tech sectors.
