Because the Polestar 4 is one of the few vehicles without a rear window. This was omitted as a special design highlight. “With Polestar 4, we have taken a fundamentally new approach to SUV coupe design. Rather than simply modifying an existing SUV and giving it a shorter roofline, resulting in compromises in headroom and rear-seat comfort, Polestar 4 was designed from the ground up as a new breed of SUV coupe. The comfort and experience of the rear passengers are clearly prioritised,” says Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar.
The idea of the closed area behind the rear passengers is not entirely new. For years there have always been studies that use the area as a projection surface or darkened comfort area. However, this is new for a mid-size crossover with a slightly sloping roof line and corresponding series reference. Polestar is now a bit confused about the nomenclature, because in terms of positioning and price, the new model wants to be grouped between Polestar 2 and Polestar 3. It starts at 60,000 euros.
The technical basis of the 4.84 meter long crossover is the Premium Sustainable Experience Architecture developed by the parent company Geely. With a wheelbase of 3.00 meters and the closed rear wall, the electric model offers plenty of space for the occupants, especially in the rear. The lack of light coming from behind is compensated for by variable ambient lighting and the panoramic roof that extends far to the rear. Appropriate camera systems ensure the rear view of the driver. A second screen for media and climate controls is mounted between the front seats and allows controls from the rear seat. “With the Polestar Precept, we had already previewed a stunning new vehicle experience by doing away with the rear window for the first time,” explains Polestar Chief Designer Maximilian Missoni, “the rear head area, which plays an important role in safety, has been eliminated at the same time shifted further back.”
The Polestar 4 is powered by two electric motors on the front and rear axles, which, thanks to 400 kW / 544 PS / 686 Nm, accelerate the Chinese Swede from zero to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. In addition to the all-wheel drive version, the Polestar 4 will also be available as a less powerful version with rear-wheel drive and 200 kW / 272 hp after its market launch next year. The wheels are available in sizes from 20 to 22 inches. Thanks to its 102 kWh battery in the underbody, ranges of 560 or 600 kilometers are possible before the next charging stop. The maximum charging speed is 200 kilowatts – more is not possible due to the lack of 800 volt technology. For the first time, however, a Polestar is also designed for bidirectional charging; it can therefore also supply other consumers with electrical energy.
There are sustainable materials in the interior, an optional nappa leather package with headrest speakers, while operation is via Google via voice or a 15.4-inch central screen. Behind the wheel, the driver looks at a 10.2-inch display. Appropriate updates can be installed wirelessly (over the air / OTA). The Polestar 4 will be produced at the Chinese plant in Hangzhou Bay from November. Launch for other markets including Europe, North America and Asia Pacific is planned for early 2024.
