Polestar, the new electric performance brand separated from Volvo, has unveiled its second production car – the Polestar 2.

The new model, described as the 'first electric car to compete in the marketplace around the Tesla Model 3', is a five-door fastback that takes design inspiration from the pricier Polestar 1 and Volvo models like the S90.

The Polestar bears a close resemblance to the 40.2 sedan concept that was unveiled nearly three years ago. At the front, the headlights sport Volvo's signature Thor's hammer styling, and at the back, there's an LED strip that runs along the entire width giving it a sleek look.

The Polestar 2 sits on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform that's shared with cars such as the Volvo XC40. It uses two electric motors, mounted across both axles for all-wheel drive, combined with a 27-module, 78kWh battery pack integrated into the floor. Polestar claims the pack contributes to chassis rigidity and helps reduce road noise by 3.7dB compared to a traditional chassis.

The powertrain produces 408hp and 660Nm of torque, which is said to deliver a 0-100kph time of less than 5sec. It’s not clear yet if cheaper variants will receive a detuned version.

The interior also takes inspiration from current Volvo models, but with bespoke technology, including a new Android-powered infotainment system. One of the first cars on sale with this operating system, Polestar claims Android 'provides a solid and adaptable digital environment for apps and vehicle functions to coexist'.

It brings with it a suite of Google services, including the Google Assistant, Google Maps with EV-specific features and the Google Play Store, all controlled via a new 11-inch central touchscreen. Further tech, such as being able to use your smartphone as the key and numerous connected services, are also part of the list.

The Polestar 2 also adopts the latest trend of a vegan interior, which head of design Maximilian Missoni claims will feature “progressive textiles that will appeal to the forward-thinking audience who will subscribe to Polestar 2”.

Like all Polestar models, the new car will only be available for online ordering. Set to make its public debut at the Geneva motor show next week, the model can be pre-booked on the firm’s website now. Production for left- and right-hand drive markets will begin in China in early 2020.

Lawrence Allan