Polestar 2 to pack 1500kg towing capacity

When Volvo’s Polestar 2 electric liftback arrives in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2020, it will do so with what the manufacturer claims is a segment-leading 1.5-tonne towing capacity.

Despite a “driver-oriented focus”, Volvo says the pioneering electric fastback will offer equal parts performance and practicality, available with an optional electric folding tow bar and luggage space totalling 440 litres thanks to 405-litre boot and 35-litre front storage compartment.

“The fastback design, with a wide-opening tailgate, ensures the rear loading area is particularly easy to access. An accessory roof rack can support a further 75kg,” the car-maker said.

Unlike European markets, which have opened online reservations for the Polestar 2, Volvo’s Australian operation is currently working on its strategy Down Under but has confirmed it too will offer online sales.

“The overall conversation is fantastic,” said Volvo Australia spokesman Greg Bosnich. “Electrification is of high interest to a lot of Australians and we’re working on our plan at the moment.”

Although the Polestar 1 coupe isn't built in right-hand drive and won't come Down Under, the first proponent of Volvo Australia’s Polestar rollout will be the Polestar 2 and it will be followed by the Polestar 3 SUV in 2022.

Powered by a 78kWh lithium-ion battery driving a pair of electric motors that generate an AMG A45-rivalling 300kW and 660Nm – and a sub-five-second 0-100km/h sprint to match – the Polestar 2 offers a (WLTP) cruising range of 500km.

"Polestar 2 is an electric performance fastback that supports an active lifestyle. It adapts to your needs; it is truly flexible,” said Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar chief executive.

“We know our customers value this flexibility and something especially relevant to tomorrow’s EV buyers – a distinct lack of compromise.”