Polestar 2 Single-Motor Variant Announced With 260-Mile Range

Polestar is expanding the ‘2’ lineup with the introduction of a single-motor variant.

The model uses the same 78 kWh battery as the dual-motor versions, which in U.S. spec powers a 231 HP electric motor. According to Polestar’s estimates, it will deliver an EPA range of around 260 miles (418 km), whereas the optional Plus Pack will further bump the autonomy.

Set to arrive at dealers at the end of the year, with pricing for the USA and Canada to be announced in the coming weeks, the single-motor Polestar 2 is well equipped, featuring the signature LED lights, 19-inch wheels, front and rear parking sensors and frameless mirrors as standard. A vegan textile upholstery available in two colors, 11-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 12.3-inch digital dials, 8-speaker stereo, reversing camera, over-the-air updates and others are also included.

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“What we have successfully managed with the new versions of the Polestar 2 is to avoid stripping the lower-priced models of their character and premium feeling”, said CEO Thomas Ingenlath. “Even the most affordable Polestar 2, with no option packs, has great visual consistency and high level of standard equipment.”

Offered in a more simplified configuration, the dual-motor Polestar 2 remains in the automaker’s lineup, with an EPA estimated range of 240 miles (386 km), and so does the Polestar 2 Launch Edition that’s available for immediate delivery in the U.S. and Canada.

The single-motor 2 is also available in Europe in two specs: standard range and long range. The former has a 64 kWh battery and a 224 PS (221 HP / 165 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque electric motor, whereas the latter uses the 78 kWh battery and a 231 PS (228 HP / 170 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) motor. The long-range, dual-motor variant features the higher capacity battery and has a combined output of 408 PS (402 HP / 300 kW) and 660 Nm (487 lb-ft) of torque.

The standard and long range single-motor versions can travel for an estimated 420-440 km (261-273 miles) and 515-540 km (320-336 miles) respectively, and the dual-motor for 450-480 km (280-298 miles). Pricing varies from around €40,000 to €60,000 ($47,605-$71,405).