Polestar 2 debuts in ASEAN with Singapore launch, cheaper than XC40



Polestar, the dedicated performance electric brand from Volvo has finally entered the ASEAN region, launching the Polestar 2 in Singapore yesterday.

Polestar’s presence in Singapore, part of the brand’s Asia Pacific network expansion, is being managed by Wearnes Automotive, a large premium and luxury distributor that occupies the western corner of Leng Kee Road. Its portfolio includes Bugatti, Koenigsegg as well as Alpine.

On the outside, the Polestar 2 has DRLs with Thor’s Hammer signature, with the headlamps having Pixel LED technology. A 35-litre front trunk or ‘frunk’ allows storage of a duffle bag and groceries.

Being a fastback design, the tailgate and rear windscreen lift together, revealing a boot space of some 405 litres. A full-width wraparound LED taillight adds style to the rear design that is dominated by lower edges in black.

Inside, a ‘floating’ 11.15-inch central display in portrait orientation takes centerstage, similar to current Volvo models. The system is powered by Android Automotive OS, featuring Google Assistant (voice) as well as Google Maps, and the suite that is now available in the new 2021 facelifted Volvo XC60. A large panoramic glass roof, 13-speaker Harman Kardon Premium Sound system and vegan WeaveTech seat upholstery are also fitted under the Plus Pack trim.

At launch, only two main variants of the China-made Polestar 2 are available, starting with the Long Range Single Motor Plus Pack, priced at an indicative SGD214,000 (approx. RM 662k) inclusive of COE. Performance numbers are adequate, with a 231 hp (170 kW) motor accelerating the fastback from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. The driving range is rated at 540 km under the WLTP test cycle.   

Based on the latest Category B COE price (SGD80k), the Polestar 2’s price is on par with Tesla Model 3 Standard Range 50 kWh.

The Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor Pilot Pack meanwhile has an indicative price of SGD240,000 (approx. RM742k) with the model having a combined output of 408 hp (300 kW) and 660 Nm of torque plus a WLTP-rated driving range of 470 km. Benchmark 0 to 100 km/h sprint is dispatched in just 4.7 seconds.

An optional Performance Pack that includes Ohlins DFV high-performance dampers, Brembo four-piston monoblock front calipers in copper-gold and lighter 20-inch forged rims with performance tyres is available for this variant, bumping the price up to SGD256,000.

These prices make the fully electric Polestar 2 even lower than the plug-in hybrid 2021 XC40 Recharge T5 from larger affiliate Volvo, which is also underpinned by the Group’s CMA platform.

An even more accessible Polestar 2 Standard Range with a 69 kWh battery pack, that sees the driving range reduce by 100 km, is scheduled to be made available from Q1 2022.  

Images are from global launch of the Polestar 2


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