Polestar is preparing to unveil a second-generation Polestar 2 next year, positioning the electric sedan against the BMW i3 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric in Europe’s premium EV market. The redesigned model is expected to bring a new platform, updated styling and additional technology.

The current Polestar 2 traces its origins to the Volvo Concept 40.2, which appeared in 2016 before Polestar became a standalone electric-vehicle manufacturer. Production development led to its road-going debut in early 2019. Although it was frequently described as a potential rival to the Tesla Model 3, its sales did not approach those of the Tesla.

Since the Polestar 2 entered the market, electric vehicles have advanced significantly. The next model is therefore set to move beyond a styling update, with changes to its electrical systems, platform and driving technology.

A flexible platform and technology from the Polestar 5

The new Polestar 2 will use a flexible platform designed to underpin multiple vehicles. One example cited in the source is Polestar’s mid-size 7 SUV, which is due to launch in 2028.

Development work on the Polestar 5 is also expected to influence the next 2. Speaking with Auto Express, Polestar head of driving dynamics Joakin Rydholm said the company intends to outperform the new BMW i3. He pointed to the Polestar 5’s active dampers and steering development as technologies and lessons that could carry over to future projects.

The upcoming sedan will also adopt an 800-volt electrical architecture intended to support quick charging. However, Polestar has not yet disclosed whether the system will match the BMW i3’s potential DC charging rate of up to 400 kW.

Power output and targeted driving range have not been announced either. The BMW i3 is cited as offering up to 559 miles, or 900 kilometers, on a charge, giving the Polestar 2 a stated benchmark as the company develops the new model.

Lower and wider exterior design

A teaser released earlier this year indicates that the second-generation Polestar 2 will have noticeably different proportions from the outgoing car. The new sedan appears lower and wider, while its daytime running lights are shaped similarly to those used on other Polestar models, including the Polestar 4 and Polestar 5.

Further details about the new Polestar 2, including its output, range and charging capability, remain undisclosed ahead of its planned unveiling next year.