The 2021 Polestar 2 Might Be the Most Convenient Road Trip EV
EVs are often an amazing choice, but road-tripping hasn’t always been one of their strong suits — at least, not until now. The 2021 Polestar 2 combines gorgeous design, comfortable seating, and high-powered tech to create an EV that can definitely handle all your road trip adventures. Here’s what you can expect from the Polestar 2, according to first-drive reviewers at Motor1.
Volvo’s exciting spinoff brand
Originally used for aftermarket Volvo vehicles, Polestar is now a company in its own right. It is owned by Geely, and we can’t help but be excited about the EVs the brand is putting out.
The first Polestar vehicle, the Polestar 1, was a well-received but rare hybrid coupe that you’re unlikely to see driving around as the brand only allocated 150 annual copies for the U.S. The Polestar 2, however, is set to take off in a major way. With access to the best of Volvo’s technology, this EV has a system in place that is likely to make road trips significantly more convenient.
The Polestar 2’s technological potential
While EVs do have many benefits, the thought of taking one for a long trip — with the potential loss of battery life and difficult-to-find charging stations — can be a little intimidating. The Polestar 2, however, features a built-in Google platform that allows for continual updates and new features that can allay some of these concerns.
The feature that may be most convenient is the route planner, which will chart out the fastest route and pick out every charging station along the way, eliminating the need for excessive research and planning. This feature will account for each station’s availability at different times of your drive and will note the vehicle’s max charging power.
Additionally, the Polestar 2 will allow for Plug & Charge. Rather than needing to worry about having your credit card handy, you’ll be automatically billed for the electricity when you plug in your vehicle at the charging station.
All of this tech is part of the embedded Android Automotive, which has a layout designed specifically for this vehicle. Motor1 reports that this system is intuitive, quick to respond, and “finally as good as your phone.”
What people are loving about this EV
Related: The Polestar 2 Is Ready to Take on the Tesla Model 3
The Polestar 2 may have incredibly convenient technology, but that isn’t the only thing reviewers love about it. In fact, one of this vehicle’s biggest draws is its appearance. Based on the Volvo XC40, Motor1 describes the Polestar 2 as a cross between a hatchback, a sedan, and an SUV, stating that this vehicle “radiates positive vibes.”
The Polestar 2 is also impressively powerful, generating 408 hp. To make driving easier even in cities, it also has a high seating position, 360-degree cameras, and large door mirrors. According to test drivers, the cabin is quiet even on the highway, eliminating both road noise and electrical buzzing from the motor. This vehicle also has high amounts of power on inclines, making it a convenient choice if you plan to road trip in more rugged, mountainous areas.
The Polestar 2’s interior is another perk. It is sleek and modern, covered in Polestar’s soft WeaveTech material, and has plenty of headroom.
Of course, there are some negatives to the Polestar 2. Its predicted travel distance per charge is approximately 250 miles, which, while not bad, isn’t quite comparable to many competitors. The high levels of power are also slightly difficult to control, Motor1 notes; drivers found themselves accidentally bursting forward when they pushed the accelerator down just a little too hard.
Overall, however, the Polestar 2 stands apart as something truly unique. Its beautiful design and convenient, responsive tech make this an EV that is definitely ready to go on some adventures.