«To demonstrate the versatility of our aluminium platform, to celebrate the pleasure of driving and to explore a segment, electric coupés and roadsters, which is still sparsely populated, to observe people’s reaction to this novelty». These are the three key raisons d’être for the O2, the latest concept car presented by Polestar, we are told by Maximilian Missoni, head of design at the Volvo originated brand which became an independent brand with its first Polestar 1 model in 2017.
Distinct character
The O2 is an emotional electric sports car and it harks to the styling cues set out by the 2020 Precept, while displaying its own distinct character. The low, wide body work has a bold look, while the 2+2 cabin is set in a rather long wheelbase with minimal overhangs, given the compactness of the electric motor. «This car is a meeting point between technology and art, between precision and sculpture, and shows a determined but non aggressive attitude», continues Missoni, who is keen to emphasise how Polestar’s stylistic identity is now a reality.
Connection with nature
«We’ve been on a journey that has given the brand a profound maturity. While our cars were initially associated with Volvos, now we are able to offer products that are unique and evoke new themes. I am thinking, for example, of the connection with nature provided by an experience such as driving under the open sky in total silence surrounded by greenery, without sacrificing the pleasure of driving while respecting the surrounding environment even in terms of noise pollution. This is O2».
Sustainable interiors
A critical focus has been kept also on the sustainability of materials, a theme that has always been dear to Polestar. All the soft elements of the interior have been made from recycled polyester and the choice to use a single material is no accident: «This way it will be easier to use it again without further waste or processing steps. The aim is to create a circularity also of the metal components, thus avoiding that they lose their properties in their second or third life, for a maximum possible efficiency».
A drone behind the rear seats
The sensation of fun generated by the Polestar O2 is not limited to the driving experience, which is in any case essential for a high performance model. The designers let their imagination run wild by integrating a drone – made by the Hoco Flow brand of the Aerofugia group – behind the rear seats, capable of filming the car in motion at speeds of up to 90 kilometres per hour. Yet another demonstration that sportiness and electric powertrains can coexist. Perhaps the only regret for the O2 is the lack of production plans.
Rimarrà solo un prototipo?
Will it remain just a prototype?
The sports car will currently remain in the prototype stage in the Polestar style centre, where around 35 designers work under the direction of Maximilian Missoni, who nevertheless prefers to leave a glimmer of hope: «At Polestar, every good idea has a future».
(Full article in A&D n. 254)
