A hybrid star in the making

Has Polestar’s first production car been worth the wait? Ted Welford found out.

While the car industry is struggling to keep up with the rise of EVS, the situation surprisingly provides a gateway for firms willing to innovate. One of these companies is Polestar

- a manufacturer that started out as Volvo’s performance arm but has now become its own carmaker, focusing on electrified models. It’s worth noting it’s still heavily linked with Volvo under big owner Geely’s ownership. And here is Polestar’s first model, the 1. Bizarrely for a firm that will, from this point onwards, just launch pure EVS, this new GT car is a plug-in hybrid - but a rather clever one at that.

WHAT’S NEW?

It’s hardly a surprise to see just how Volvo-like the Polestar 1 is, given its inspiration is the Volvo Concept Coupe. The big news is the new plug-in hybrid powertrain, with the 1’s setup being completely different to other Volvos - producing 601bhp, while also offering the longest claimed electric range of any plug-in hybrid on sale today.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

One of the key benefits of electric cars is the seamless performance, and this is undoubtedly the key asset to the Polestar. It picks up speed at an alarming rate, and the changeover to when the petrol engine kicks is one of the smoothest of any petrol-electric model. The stiffer chassis is also noticed and the Akebono brakes provide superb stopping power.

HOW DOES IT LOOK?

The Polestar 1’s styling is sensational. The proportions are just about perfect with an extended bonnet, long doors and gorgeous 21-inch alloy wheels. As mentioned, its whole inspiration is the Volvo Concept Coupe - hence why it’s recognisable first as a Volvo and second as a Polestar. There’s nothing wrong with that, as Volvos are some of the best-looking cars around.

WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?

Given the Polestar 1 costs an eye-watering £139,000, it’s pleasing just how much kit it comes with. A few equipment highlights are Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving something that’s about unique in this class - along with Nappa leather sports seats and active bending LED headlights. The line-up is simple too, and aside from splashing out an additional £5,000 to have your car with matte paint, or the choice of three wheel finishes and two interior combinations, that’s where the option boxes end.

THE VERDICT

In terms of styling, technology and performance, the Polestar 1 is an absolute masterclass and a superb showcase to what Polestar will hopefully offer from future all-electric models.