Credit where it's due to Polestar, it's trying harder than most to make electrified cars interesting to the enthusiast. The Polestar 1 was some opening gambit, with 609hp and more than 100 miles of electric range; the 2's Ohlins dampers and optional Performance Pack were welcome concessions to PHer types; that was then followed up by the intriguing 'Beast' track focused build. Now there's another really interesting one-off from Polestar, this 2 built for ice driving - the Arctic Circle.
Not the most imaginative name perhaps, but a great looking concept. Using a Long Range Performance Pack car as its base, the 2 Arctic Circle has been lifted by 30mm, boosted to 469hp, and fitted with winter tyres boasting 490 studs per tyre. Which is all kind of par for the course, but Polestar hasn't stopped there in creating its Andros Trophy wannabe. There are new strut braces front and rear to benefit steering responsiveness and torsional rigidity, reworked Ohlins dampers, 30 per cent softer springs and some fantastic Celica GT Four-esque OZ wheels. Plus the spotlights, of course - can't go on in the snow without spotlights. Note as well the beautiful gold tow hooks, Recaro seats and even carbon fibre shovel in the boot should you get stuck. Like all the Polestars, lovely details abound in the Arctic Circle; one-off study or not, this isn't some cobbled together mule.
So, why do it? We have Joakim Rydholm to thank, Polestar's chief chassis engineer and rally driver in his spare time. He loves how snow and ice can show off a car's dynamics, basically: "With such low levels of grip, we can feel and analyse the dynamics at a much slower pace than on tarmac, which means we can really fine-tune the way our cars behave, down to the smallest details. This is my absolute favourite place to develop cars." Rydholm added the intention was to have "more fun" with this 2, which is a rare thing to read in the typically virtuous world of electric cars. "The balance and predictability we have achieved with the raised ride height and specialised tyres are particularly noticeable when you enter a bend completely sideways, with a bigger-than-usual smile on your face, and in total control", he concluded. A claim which the images certainly support - good work, Joakim.
Obviously, the Arctic Circle isn't going to be made, but the very fact it exists does at least show some intent from Polestar - as with the Beast - to inject a little bit of attitude into an entire sector that can feel a bit sterile. Perhaps the emerging trend for off-road supercars like the Huracan Sterrato and 911 Safari might encourage Polestar to think about making a few Arctic Circles - we'll bet demand will comfortably outstrip supply. Think how handy that shovel might be.
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