Better Motors, Batteries and Power with new Polestar 2

Polestar has up graded the performance of its Polestar 2 with its latest facelift now boasting a claimed 469bhp in its highest performance version.

For the 2024 model year, the compact BEV features a front end that reflects the design language premiered by Polestar 3, all-new electric motors, more powerful batteries, sustainability improvements and, for the first time in a Polestar, a rear-wheel drive option.

Next-generation electric motors and inverters are fitted and single-motor variants are now rear-wheel driven, powered by a newly developed permanent magnet motor and silicon carbide inverter. This version has a power output of up to 265bhp and maximum torque of 361ft-lbs pushing the vehicle’s 0-62mph sprint time down to 6.2 seconds.

The dual-motor version now has a rear-drive bias that increases driving pleasure and performance thanks to a completely re-balanced drivetrain setup and torque-ratio. The new rear motor is the primary drive source, supported on the front axle by a new asynchronous motor. This enables higher total system output of 216bhp and 545ft-lbs, improved traction, greater overall efficiency and higher performance with 0-62mph is achieved in 4.5 seconds. Supporting efficiency gains, the front motor can now be disengaged completely when not needed. When the driver wants more power, the front motor re-engages instantly and seamlessly.

Up to 469bhp is available with the optional Performance Pack and a 0-62mph sprint time as low as just 4.2 seconds. The increase in power, performance and driving enjoyment is also available to purchase as a downloadable over-the-air performance software upgrade for any eligible Long range Dual motor cars.

All Polestar 2 versions, in most markets, feature upgraded lithium-ion batteries, with a positive impact on efficiency and capacity as well as charging times. Long-range versions now feature 82 kWh batteries from CATL with 27 modules. The battery for standard-range versions retains a capacity of 69 kWh with 24 modules and is now supplied by LG Chem. The updated batteries benefit from a redesigned battery disconnect unit, upgraded busbars and improved cell chemistry – enabling faster charging rates of up to 205 kW DC for long-range batteries and 135 kW for the standard-range battery.

Range improvements come thanks to the larger and improved batteries and the optimization of power delivery from the more powerful motors. The front motor disconnect function on the Long range Dual motor variant is particularly effective at range, which is now up to a claimed 367 miles on the WLTP rating, an increase of 65miles. The Standard range Single motor version is now claiming a range of up to 321 miles and the Long range Single motor variant is said to achieve up to 395 miles.

Polestar says that despite the larger batteries, more powerful motors, longer range and more exciting performance, carbon emissions for versions with the new 82 kWh battery have come down by 1.1 tons to 5.9 tons per car, from a previous 7 tons per car, thanks to improved cell chemistry. A full life cycle assessment (LCA) is planned later in 2023.

Polestar CEO, Thomas Ingenlath, said: “Typically in the car industry, a facelift introduces superficial visual changes that often destroy the original intention of the car’s design theme. With the new model year Polestar 2, we rather went below the surface and upgraded substantial tech and mechanical components of the electric drivetrain. This is the best Polestar 2 yet, and with the updated front design with the new SmartZone, the best looking one, too.”

The model year 2024 Polestar 2 is available to order now at Polestar.com in European markets, with more markets to follow. First deliveries are expected in the third quarter of 2023. Pricing starts from €50,190 ($54,581) and rises to €64,690 ($70,350).

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_