Harsh winter testing has never been more fun.
Polestar is now included in the list of exclusively all battery-electric automakers now that the Polestar 1 PHEV has been ended its production run. This also means models like the Polestar 2 and upcoming Polestars 3 and 4 need to be able to handle year-round weather, especially harsh winters. Polestar needs to firmly prove to consumers that EVs have what it takes to survive snow and ice. Extreme heat also can’t be a problem.
But for now, Polestar is focused on the weather outside and it’s pretty cold for most Americans. Therefore, it’s the perfect time to conduct intense winter testing. Polestar’s program runs for 15 weeks from December to March every year within the Arctic Circle where temperatures can be as low as -31 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s why company engineers built the Polestar 2 “Arctic Circle,” a one-off test concept that brings some rally inspiration.
The concept started off as a Long-Range Dual Motor with the Performance Pack. Engineers then raised the ride height by 30 mm, increased power and torque to 469 hp and 501 lb-ft, and then bolted on custom-built 19-inch studded winter tires, each equipped with 4 mm metal studs.
“I wanted to have more fun than usual with this car – really being able to push it in terms of performance and handling in a winter environment like a frozen lake,” said Joakim Rydholm, Polestar’s chief chassis engineer. “The balance and predictability we have achieved with the raised ride height and specialized tires are particularly noticeable when you enter a bend completely sideways, with a bigger-than-usual smile on your face, and in total control.”
Along with the above mods, Rydholm and crew swapped in softer springs, three-way performance dampers, front and rear strut braces for additional torsional rigidity and steering response, and, lastly, a new prototype launch control system. To ensure no one gets completely stranded, a carbon fiber snow shovel and recovery strap were mounted to the rear. A few exterior add-ons are 19-inch rally wheels, LED front lights, a carbon fiber skid plate, and unique livery. Inside, there are custom Recaro front bucket seats.
This all sounds pretty cool, right? Indeed. Unfortunately, Polestar is clear this is only a one-time thing and there are no production plans.
Keyword: Polestar 2 Attacks The Arctic Circle Rally Style