Polestar unveiled its latest electric performance SUV coupe, the Polestar 4, at the Shanghai Auto Show. The Polestar 4 is the Swedish automaker’s second SUV, and it is also their “fastest Polestar production car to date.”
The Polestar 4, dubbed an “SUV coupe” by the automaker, incorporates design elements inspired by Polestar’s concept cars. According to Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar, the approach taken in designing the Polestar 4 was not to simply lower the roof of an existing model and compromise rear headroom, but to create an entirely new type of SUV coupe that prioritizes rear occupant comfort and experience, starting from the ground up.
In pursuit of this goal, the vehicle goes against convention and doesn’t have a traditional rear window, a decision that Polestar claims enables a novel and immersive experience for rear occupants. To compensate for the lack of a rearview mirror, a digital unit reliant on a roof-mounted camera is utilized. The vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency is further optimized through design features such as a low nose, retractable door handles, rear aero blades, and frameless windows with flush glazing.
As the rear window is absent, the standard glass roof extends seamlessly over the heads of the rear occupants. For added privacy, customers have the option to equip the glass roof with an electrochromic function that allows for darkening of the glass. Rear passengers also enjoy a dedicated media and climate control screen for operating these functions, as well as the convenience of reclining seats and customizable ambient lighting.
The sporty SUV comes fitted with a 102 kWh battery that can charge up to 200 kW DC and 22 kW AC. The vehicle also comes with a heat pump standard.
In terms of tech, the Polestar 4 will come with a 15.4-inch screen featuring Android Automotive OS with Google built-in. In addition, the vehicle will come with a Harmon Kardon audio system.
The vehicle will also have different packs to add tech and comfort features.
- The Plus Pack will add technology such as Pilot Assist and comfort updates.
- The Plus Pro Pack will add an electrochromic glass roof, colour-coded body execution and additional interior illumination.
- While the Nappa Pack includes the Plus Pack and Nappa leather upholstery chairs and additional headrest speakers.
- Finally, the Performance Pack will increase the vehicle’s look, feel and driving performance, adding Swedish gold details throughout the car.
Polestar will first launch the Polestar 4 in China, with production starting in Geely’s Hangzhou Bay production facility in November 2023. Details on the North American market, including final pricing, will come in 2024, with a release sometime in mid to late 2024 with an expected starting price around C$80,000/US$60,000.
