Polestar, the electric performance car brand, is expanding its lineup with the introduction of a single-motor rear-wheel-drive option for the Polestar 3. While the rear-drive car may have less power than its dual-motor counterparts, it offers potential buyers a more affordable option with increased range.
The rear-wheel-drive Polestar 3 comes equipped with a 107.0-kWh battery pack, which is the same as the dual-motor variants. However, power is reduced to 295 horsepower and 361 lb.-ft. of torque compared to 483 horsepower in the standard dual-motor setup and 510 horsepower in the optional Performance trim. Despite the decrease in power, the rear-drive model is expected to offer more range.
Although pricing for North America has not been confirmed by Polestar, it is anticipated that the new trim will start just under $70,000 when it becomes available later this summer. The Polestar 3 is already on sale in Europe, but Polestar has confirmed that a cheaper single-motor version will be added to the lineup before it reaches U.S. customers.
In terms of range, the rear-wheel-drive Polestar 3 is expected to surpass the dual-motor models’ range ratings in the United States. While official EPA numbers have not been released, Polestar claims that the Long Range Single Motor trim can travel just over 400 miles between charges using WLTP testing. In comparison, the dual-motor models have a range rating of 315 miles for the Long Range trim and 279 miles for the Performance pack.
Despite having one less motor, the rear-drive Polestar 3 still maintains the features and comfort of its more powerful counterparts. The entry-level model offers a full options list, including six paint options and choices for the interior finish. Additionally, there are four wheel options available, including a new set of 21-inch alloy wheels as part of the Pro Pack.
While pricing for North America has yet to be confirmed, it is expected that the rear-wheel-drive Polestar 3 will start just under $70,000, making it more affordable than the Long Range Dual Motor trim and the Performance model. Furthermore, potential buyers may also be eligible for tax incentives due to the vehicle being built in South Carolina.
Production for the North American market is set to begin this summer, with deliveries expected to start later in the year. With the introduction of the rear-wheel-drive option, Polestar aims to provide a wider range of choices for customers interested in their electric performance cars.
In conclusion, the addition of the single-motor rear-wheel-drive option to the Polestar 3 lineup offers potential buyers a more affordable electric performance car with increased range. Despite having less power, the rear-drive model maintains the features and comfort of its dual-motor counterparts. With production starting this summer, Polestar aims to cater to a broader customer base and further establish itself as a leading player in the electric vehicle market.