Meet the Polestar 2 Arctic Circle - a one-off rally special

By Sam Phillips

2 Feb 2022

Electric car manufacturer Polestar has created a one-off, rally-inspired special of the Polestar 2 called the Arctic Circle that has been adapted to conquer tough winter conditions.

The snow-ready EV is based on Polestar’s long-range performance pack variant of the 2 electric saloon, and features upgrades to both the power output and suspension.

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Polestar has boosted the power of the twin-motor machine from 402bhp to 469bhp, as well increasing the torque to 502lb ft.

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The springs have been softened by 30% to offer more grip on snow and ice, while three-way performance dampers from Ohlins have been added alongside front and rear strut braces to improve the 2’s rigidity and handling.

To give the Arctic Circle a more rally-orientated look the firm has fitted the car with OZ Racing Rally wheels, four Stedi Quad Pro LED lights and custom Recaro front bucket seats.

The Sino-Swedish firm has also added 19-inch studded tyres with 4mm metal studs to give the Arctic Circle additional grip on both snow and ice.

“I wanted to have more fun than usual with this car – really being able to push it in terms of performance and handling in a winter environment like a frozen lake,” said Joakim Rydholm, Polestar’s chief chassis engineer.

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“The balance and predictability we have achieved with the raised ride height and specialised tyres are particularly noticeable when you enter a bend completely sideways, with a bigger-than-usual smile on your face, and in total control.”

Sadly, the machine is purely a one-off concept both to highlight the importance of winter testing programmes to Polestar, and to show that EVs are hugely capable in the cold. That means Polestar will not put the Arctic Circle into production.