ELECTRIC FEELS
Never mind the hybrids: we test a Tesla-eater, a dinky hatchback and two motorbikes that are all totally petrol-free… and totally fun
• POLESTAR 2
Cruise the streets in a Polestar 2 and passers-by will scratch their heads, generally look perplexed and then blurt out: “Is it a Tesla?” It turns out a large chunk of the general public haven’t heard of Polestar yet - and that’s a shame, because the electric subsidiary of Volvo launched its Polestar 1 last year and it was a stunning (if limited in number) £140,000 hybrid that revealed a beautiful new design direction, punchy performance and innovative tech.
Despite rave reviews, Polestar always planned to ditch the fossil-fuel engine completely - and its difficult second album is aimed squarely at those who consider the Tesla Model 3 the last word in (sort of) affordable electric motoring.
Prices start at £46,900 for this five-door all-electric fastback, which has a slightly raised ride height, boxier proportions and plenty of room for five people and their luggage. It might sound unconventional, but it blends elements of a futuristic saloon with bits of an SUV and totally gets away with it. If Robocop were a successful architect, this would be his ride.
Dual motors power the front and rear axles (yep, similar to a Tesla) and these suck juice from 78kWh batteries that pack 27 individual modules. Expect a meaty 408hp on tap, as well as a staggering 660Nm of torque. Electric cars are generally quick but that torque figure beats a Ferrari 458… and it goes one step further than its closest rivals by actually driving sweetly.