Polestar 3 & 4 Arctic Circle Models: The Next Evolution in Cold-Weather EV Performance

Polestar, the Swedish performance-oriented electric vehicle brand, has unveiled an exclusive collection of Arctic Circle-inspired models, reinforcing its deep connection to Swedish motorsport heritage and extreme weather performance. These specially modified Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 vehicles are designed to showcase how electrification, precision engineering, and rally-inspired upgrades can redefine the driving experience in harsh winter environments.

This collection is not just about aesthetics—it represents Polestar’s ongoing pursuit of performance, even in the most challenging conditions. With a history rooted in racing and advanced chassis development, Polestar continues to push the boundaries of EV handling, control, and traction on snow and ice.

What is the Arctic Circle Collection?

The Arctic Circle Collection is a set of one-off, high-performance versions of the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4, built specifically to demonstrate how electric powertrains can deliver superior performance in extreme cold and slippery conditions.

Polestar’s engineers took inspiration from rally racing, a sport where Scandinavian drivers have historically excelled due to their expertise in managing treacherous surfaces. The Arctic Circle versions focus on power delivery, suspension tuning, and winter-specific modifications, making them highly capable on snow-covered roads and frozen landscapes.

These specialized vehicles have been tested extensively in the far north of Sweden, where temperatures plummet to as low as -40°F (-40°C). Such extreme conditions push both hardware and software to their limits, ensuring the battery, motors, and stability systems function optimally when traction is at its lowest.

Key Performance Upgrades in the Arctic Circle Models

Polestar has fine-tuned these winter-ready EVs with several significant performance-oriented modifications to ensure maximum grip, handling, and agility.

1. Rally-Tuned Suspension

• Increased ground clearance for better clearance over deep snow.
• Retuned dampers and springs for improved control and stability on uneven, icy terrain.
• Upgraded anti-roll bars to reduce body roll while maintaining ride comfort.

2. Specially Developed Winter Tires

• Equipped with studded rally-spec tires, offering maximum traction on ice and packed snow.
• Wider track width for better stability in low-traction environments.
• Optimized tread patterns to channel slush and prevent ice buildup.

3. Power Delivery Optimization

• Torque vectoring software recalibration allows for precise power distribution between the front and rear motors, enhancing control during aggressive cornering.
• More aggressive regenerative braking to maximize grip and control in slippery conditions.
• Snow mode tuning for better acceleration and stability on icy surfaces.

4. Aerodynamic and Exterior Modifications

• Unique front splitters and rear spoilers designed to improve stability at higher speeds on snow-covered roads.
• Special cold-weather paint formulated to resist extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Lightweight rally-style wheels to reduce unsprung mass for improved handling.

Polestar’s Deep-Rooted Connection to Performance Engineering

Polestar’s history in performance tuning and motorsports plays a crucial role in the Arctic Circle collection. Before becoming a standalone EV brand, Polestar was Volvo’s performance division, specializing in chassis dynamics and powertrain optimization for racing and road-going applications.

Polestar’s commitment to precision engineering and driving dynamics continues to define its approach to electric mobility. Unlike conventional EVs that focus solely on range and efficiency, Polestar integrates performance DNA into every model, ensuring a driver-focused experience that remains engaging regardless of road conditions.

How the Arctic Circle Collection Showcases Swedish Performance DNA

Swedish automotive culture has long been shaped by harsh winter conditions, making cold-weather performance a critical factor in vehicle development. This philosophy is evident in classic Scandinavian rally racing, where drivers mastered snow-covered tracks and frozen lake circuits to gain a competitive edge.

The Arctic Circle collection pays tribute to this motorsport heritage by integrating rally-inspired engineering with modern electric technology. By doing so, Polestar is proving that EVs can excel in environments where traditional combustion-powered vehicles have dominated for decades.

Advantages of Electric Power in Winter Performance

• Instant torque delivery improves acceleration and traction on ice.
• Lower center of gravity due to battery placement enhances stability.
• Fewer moving parts reduce wear and tear in extreme cold.
• Precise torque distribution offers more control in slippery conditions.