Polestar O2 roadster concept revealed

Volvo-owned electric car brand Polestar has revealed its vision for a performance electric convertible, the Polestar O2 concept.

While the O2 rides on the bonded aluminium architecture bound for the production Polestar 5 sedan in 2024, it’s only a concept for now – though Polestar has form in turning concepts into production cars, with 2020’s Precept show car set to inspire the aforementioned Polestar 5.

A derivative of the Polestar Precept concept, the Polestar O2 adapts the sedan’s front-end styling cues and design language for a two-door roadster body, with a 2+2 seating layout and tall rear buttresses.

Integrated air ducts are on offer to “improve laminar air flow over the wheels and body sides”, while Polestar says the tail-lights are designed to serve as “air blades” reducing turbulence behind the car.

Located behind the rear seats is said to be a drone, which can take off while the car is on the move – thanks to a unique aerofoil that provides negative air pressure – and can follow it autonomously at speeds up to 90km/h.

“The driver can choose between an atmospheric sequence – great for a coastline cruise – or a more action-filled sequence with a sportier expression,” Polestar says.

Once filming has ended, the drone returns autonomously back to its take-off point, with the  driver-turned-YouTuber able to edit and share video clips from the car’s 15-inch centre touchscreen.

Inside, the aforementioned touchscreen is joined by a slim digital instrument display in front of the driver, and a similar steering wheel to the Precept concept.

Sustainability is noted as a focus, with a thermoplastic material used “extensively”, and recycled polyester in foam, adhesive, 3D knit fibres and non-woven lamination.

Different grades of aluminium are used in the car’s chassis to “deliver a thrilling driving experience”, Polestar says, each with labelling allowing them to be recycled more effectively.

No performance details have been announced – though Polestar is reportedly developing a new electric motor in house for future electric cars, developing up to 475kW.

The Polestar O2 will remain a concept for now, with no announced plans for a production version – though the Precept concept it’s inspired by will reach showrooms in 2024 as the Polestar 5.

It will join today’s Polestar 2 mid-size electric sedan in showrooms, along with a Polestar 3 large electric SUV due overseas this year (or likely Australia next year), followed by the Polestar 4 mid-size electric ‘coupe’ SUV in 2023.