The highly anticipated Polestar 5 sedan, the latest offering from Swedish electric performance brand Polestar, made its debut at the prestigious 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the U.K. This camouflaged prototype showcased the production version of the 2020 Precept concept car and is set to make its world debut in 2024. The Polestar 5 is expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms the following year as a 2026 model.
Accompanying the Polestar 5 at the festival was the 2024 Polestar 3 SUV, which originally debuted in 2022 but faced delays due to software issues. The same issues affected the Volvo EX90 SUV, as both vehicles share a platform. These setbacks have pushed the start of production for the Polestar 3 to early 2024.
The Polestar 5 is significant as it marks the brand’s first-ever model based on an in-house developed platform. This platform is a bonded aluminum design that, according to Polestar, offers exceptional torsional rigidity that surpasses even some two-door sports cars and supercars. This focus on structural integrity is crucial for Polestar, as the brand aims to position itself as a formidable competitor to Porsche.
When it comes to performance, Polestar has set ambitious goals for the Polestar 5. The company is targeting a maximum power output of 884 horsepower from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain. Additionally, Polestar has confirmed the presence of an 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing for high-speed charging. However, the brand has not released specific details regarding battery capacity or range.
With its impressive performance figures, the Polestar 5 promises to be a direct rival to other high-performance electric sedans in the market, such as the Porsche Taycan, Audi E-Tron GT, and top-tier versions of the Tesla Model S. Lotus, another renowned automaker in the electric vehicle space, is also developing a similar model known as the Type 133.
In terms of design, the Polestar 5 closely resembles the Precept concept. However, there are a few differences. The 5 ditches the concept’s coach-style rear doors in favor of conventional doors, and it features traditional side mirrors instead of stalk-mounted cameras. Last year, leaked patent drawings provided a glimpse into the anticipated design of the upcoming model.
Before the Polestar 5 hits the market, Polestar will commence sales of the Polestar 3 SUV and a compact crossover called the Polestar 4. The Polestar 4 is scheduled to arrive in U.S. showrooms in 2024 as a 2025 model. Looking further ahead, Polestar has plans to introduce a sixth model, a roadster known as the Polestar 6, in 2026. Additionally, a mysterious model called the Polestar 7 is set to make its debut around 2027.
As Polestar continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, the brand is establishing itself as a formidable player in the electric performance market. With innovative engineering, cutting-edge design, and impressive performance capabilities, Polestar is capturing the attention of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. The Polestar 5, with its sleek styling, potent powertrain, and advanced technology, is poised to make a significant impact when it finally arrives on the market.