Get To Know More About The Electric Volvo and Polestar Models

The electric vehicle (EV) car market has grown extensively around the world.  Global sales keep rising while the largest automobile manufacturers have incorporated EV into their massive manufacturing footprint.  EV models are no longer considered “niche”.  Most automotive companies now offer hybrid versions, plug-in hybrids, or full battery-electric variants as part of their product lineup. 

For years Volvo has featured Plug-In-Hybrids combining both electric and gas/diesel engine variants. Volvo began branding those early versions as “Twin Engine” models. Those early models marked the beginning of Volvo’s hybrid era and showed the company’s early commitment to cleaner mobility.

Between 2012-2019 Volvo’s EV evolution and values came to the forefront of all their marketing and innovation.  Volvo became the first major automaker to publicly announce it would electrify its entire lineup.  They declared that starting in 2019, every new Volvo would have some form of electric motor whether hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric.  This announcement marked Volvo as an early leader in the shift toward sustainable mobility.

Polestar started off as a Swedish racing and performance tuning company.  They became Volvo’s official performance partner, tuning Volvo models offering upgrades, suspension and tuning options. The partnership was very similar to AMG for Mercedes. In 2017, Volvo’s parent company Geely, restructured Polestar into a standalone electric performance brand developing high-end electrified vehicles using Volvo’s technology base. Volvo was to focus on safety and design while Polestar continued to push the boundaries of high-performance EV technology.  Both brands would share all technology, platforms, and research ultimately speeding up the electric development while lowering costs.

Volvo used Polestar to inject performance and innovation into its lineup and eventually used that ability to lead its electric vehicle strategy.  For decades, Volvo has been known for its commitment to protecting lives with innovative seat belts, crash safety, and driver-assist technology. Everything Volvo does is based around that philosophy. Volvo has said, “if we care about people, we must also care about the planet they live on.” The company is committed to reducing emissions as the next chapter of safety. Volvo has always been seen as a climate-neutral mobility company. 

Volvo is aiming for true sustainability by using recycled materials and renewable energy in factories. Volvo publicly tracks and reports progress each year to stay accountable.  Volvo has been outspoken about building ethical supply chains, especially for battery materials like cobalt and lithium.  They also utilize blockchain technology to trace raw materials used in their batteries. The brand partners with suppliers who meet strict environmental and human rights standards, reducing harm to communities and ecosystems.  Volvo is committed to showing that luxury and performance can coexist with integrity and accountability. 

If you’re anything like us, we have been on the fence about EV’s for some time now. Buying an electric vehicle can feel like a huge step. It’s normal to have questions about range, charging options, cost, and reliability.  EV Technology has advanced rapidly, ranges are longer, charging networks are popping up everywhere!  The maintenance of owning an electric car is simpler and cheaper.

In 2017 Geely spun Polestar off into its own brand. Over the years they have shared so much in the way of tech, platforms and safety systems, it’s safe to say that when you get into a Polestar, it still boasts features and the same feeling of a Volvo car.  That’s why we include Polestar in this discussion. 

Driving a Volvo or Polestar EV makes everyday trips feel fresh and exciting.  You get a smooth, quiet, and surprisingly zippy feeling when driving EV cars. At the same time, you’re doing your part for the planet, showing that smart choices can be fun too.  We understand there are upfront costs, and it may not be the most economical for you.  But the simple fact is, automotive manufacturers are tooling up to make sure EV is available to anyone looking to obtain one. Owning an EV is another way to live intentionally.

Here at IPD we have been driving both Volvo and Polestar EV models.  It has been delightful to see how far technology has come. These cars have become more of an appliance serving our daily needs.  If you have been considering an EV, check out this video where IPD’s president Chris Delano got together with the owners of DLR Nordic and Polestar of Portland covering some of the hard questions about owning an EV.  You might find yourself getting into an EV before you know it!