Polestar Finally Announces Performance Upgrades For Polestar 2

Polestar has long talked about the performance upgrade that will be available for Polestar 2 vehicles. This would be a free download for those who have the performance pack and an additional cost for those who simply want the performance upgrade, but did not purchase the performance pack.

Extra Power

The performance software upgrade increases the motors' combined certified output over the complete RPM register, increasing power from 408 hp (300 kW) to 476 hp (350 kW ) and torque from 487 to 502 lb-ft.  A boost that also reduces the acceleration time from 0-60 mph to just 4.2 seconds.

The Polestar 2 is already a fairly agile vehicle with plenty of power and torque, however with the performance upgrade you get even more. The upgrade adds nearly 68 horsepower and 15 torque lb-ft. They also state a reduction of 0-60 times as expected.

Improved Responsiveness

The Polestar, as stated previously, is not by any means a slow vehicle. I have noticed, however, the responsiveness of the pedal mapping could leave a little more to be desired. There tends to be a decent amount of travel between when the power really kicks in and initiation. Polestar seems to have improved this with the performance upgrade.

Apart from increasing the car's power and torque, the performance software upgrade also changes the pedal mapping. As a result, the motors respond more quickly to the accelerator, elevating the driving experience even further.

Launch control

For those moments when even extraordinary acceleration is deemed too ordinary, the performance software upgrade includes a launch control feature. It's activated by simultaneously depressing the accelerator and brake pedals, preloading a higher starting torque to provide maximum power right from a standstill. The result is a car that literally speeds up in the blink of an eye and extends its momentum over a longer period.

Stay sustainable

A concern a lot of people would have with a performance upgrade is how does it affect efficiency or range? The good news is the performance upgrade does not impact range in of itself. The act of installing the upgrade does not influence range or efficiency, however, what will alter it is how you drive it. As with all vehicles, your driving style greatly alters your range/efficiency/mileage. If you are constantly smashing the go pedal, then of course you will have less range.

The performance software upgrade does not affect Polestar 2's energy consumption. The OTA installation is an efficient way to deliver enhanced performance using fewer resources.

Cost and Release Date

For those who did not purchase the performance pack, you will be required to purchase the performance upgrade. Polestar states that this price will be $1195 in the USA and $1595 CAD in Canada. That comes out to roughly $18/HP, which, for a no work performance upgrade, that isn't too bad.

Polestar has stated that the upgrade will be available December 6th in the United States and Canada.

Sources: 1