Polestar

Polestar operates as a premium electric vehicle manufacturer specializing in high-performance vehicles that combine Scandinavian design heritage with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. The company's business encompasses vehicle design, engineering, manufacturing, sales, and after-sales service, with a focus on creating a sustainable electric mobility future.

In 2026, Polestar continues to establish itself as a distinct electric performance car brand within the competitive EV landscape. The company's mission centers on improving society through electric mobility innovation while maintaining its commitment to premium design, performance, and sustainability. Polestar positions itself as a premium alternative to established luxury brands and Tesla, emphasizing distinctive Scandinavian aesthetics, advanced technology integration, and performance driving dynamics.

The company's business model focuses on premium electric vehicle manufacturing with an expanding product lineup. Polestar generates revenue primarily through vehicle sales, with growing emphasis on higher-priced models like the Polestar 3 SUV and Polestar 4 coupe SUV. The company has also developed innovative sales approaches, including competitive lease programs with the Polestar 4 available from $599 per month, making premium electric vehicles more accessible to consumers while maintaining brand positioning.

Financial performance in 2025 demonstrated significant growth despite challenging market conditions. For the first nine months of 2025, Polestar reported revenue of $748 million, representing 36% growth compared to the previous year. This growth was driven by increased volumes and growing sales of higher-priced models, with the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 representing an increasing proportion of the sales mix. The company also generated $33 million in carbon credits sales during this period, contributing to revenue while supporting sustainability initiatives.

Polestar's manufacturing operations leverage Geely's global production network while maintaining Swedish engineering oversight. The company operates manufacturing facilities in China, taking advantage of cost-efficient production and access to advanced EV technology. Production capacity continues to expand to support growing demand, with the company investing in manufacturing efficiency and quality improvements.

The company's global presence continues to expand, reaching 192 sales points across 28 markets by September 2025. This network includes 141 active retail partners, reflecting Polestar's transition to an active selling model. The company maintains service points through Volvo Cars service centers, supporting international expansion while ensuring customer service quality. Polestar's market presence is strongest in Europe and North America, with growing operations in other regions.

Research and development represents a crucial investment area for Polestar, focusing on electric drivetrain technology, battery systems, and digital integration. The company's vehicles feature advanced technology including Google Android Automotive OS, over-the-air updates, and sophisticated driver assistance systems. For 2026 models, Polestar is upgrading vehicles with 800-volt electrical architecture supporting peak DC charging rates of up to 350 kW, significantly reducing charging times.

Sustainability remains integral to Polestar's business strategy, with the company committed to reducing emissions by 25% across its operations. This commitment encompasses manufacturing processes, supply chain management, and vehicle lifecycle considerations. Polestar's focus on sustainability aligns with growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible premium products and regulatory requirements for reduced emissions in the automotive sector.

Polestar was established in 2017 by Volvo Cars as a performance electric vehicle brand, building on Volvo's earlier Polestar performance division that created high-performance variants of Volvo vehicles. The company was created to develop dedicated electric performance vehicles that would combine Swedish design heritage with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology.

The company's first product, the Polestar 1, launched in 2019 as a low-volume hybrid performance coupe with limited production. This vehicle demonstrated Polestar's engineering capabilities and established the brand's performance credentials. The Polestar 1 incorporated advanced hybrid technology and premium materials, setting the tone for the brand's positioning in the premium electric vehicle market.

In 2020, Polestar launched the Polestar 2, a fully electric performance fastback that became the company's first volume model. The Polestar 2 competed directly with Tesla Model 3 and other premium electric vehicles, offering distinctive Scandinavian design, Google Android Automotive integration, and impressive performance specifications. The Polestar 2 established the brand as a serious contender in the growing electric vehicle market.

Throughout 2021 and 2022, Polestar expanded its global presence, establishing retail locations and service networks in key markets including North America, Europe, and China. The company also announced ambitious expansion plans, including the upcoming Polestar 3 electric SUV and Polestar 4 electric coupe SUV. During this period, Polestar also went public through a SPAC merger, listing on the Nasdaq exchange under the ticker PSNY.

In 2023, Polestar faced market challenges as electric vehicle demand growth slowed in key markets, particularly the United States. The company delivered approximately 55,000 vehicles globally, falling short of its projected 80,000 units. Despite these challenges, Polestar continued development of its upcoming models and began production of the Polestar 3 SUV.

The year 2024 marked significant strategic changes as Volvo announced its intention to reduce ownership in Polestar, transitioning the company to primary Geely control. This period also saw the launch of the Polestar 4, a sleek electric coupe SUV that offered distinctive design and advanced technology. The company continued expanding its retail network, reaching 192 sales points across 28 markets globally.

In 2025, Polestar demonstrated strong financial growth despite competitive market conditions. The company reported 49% revenue growth to $748 million for the first nine months of 2025, driven by increased volumes and higher-priced models like the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4. Retail sales reached 44,482 vehicles for the nine-month period, representing 36.5% growth compared to the previous year. The company also secured significant funding, including a $200 million PIPE investment from Geely Holding Group founder Eric Li, and renewed approximately $3.2 billion in loan facilities.

Looking toward 2026, Polestar continues to expand its model lineup with the upcoming Polestar 5 electric grand tourer and Polestar 6 roadster based on the O2 concept. The company is upgrading its vehicles with advanced technology, including 800-volt electrical architecture and peak DC charging rates of up to 350 kW for the 2026 model year. Polestar's evolution from a Volvo performance division to an independent electric vehicle brand demonstrates the company's ability to adapt to changing market conditions while maintaining its focus on premium electric performance vehicles.