UAE’s Al-Futtaim rolls out Polestar 3: Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility Company has launched a luxury high-performance electric SUV — the Polestar 3 — in the UAE, according to a press release. The five-seater car — delayed in its release — has been tested to withstand the extreme summer temperatures of the UAE. Polestar is a Swedish based EV maker backed by Volvo Motors.

Price tag and delivery: Prices start at AED 360k for the long range dual motor and AED 410k for the model with an added performance pack, the statement said. Cars can be reserved now for delivery in May 2024.

The specs: The SUV features a 360 kW long range dual motor, has an all-wheel drive system, and a 400V lithium-ion battery, with 111 kWh capacity and 17 modules for the base model, and can reach top speeds of 210 km per hour, according to Polestar’s website. The premium model has a 380 kW motor as well as increased torque and power.

Aerodynamic efficiency: Inspired by “Scandinavian minimalism,” the Polestar 3 has a sleek design with optimized headroom and low rooflines, the statement said. Its design is intended to allow smooth airflow and reduce high-pressure buildup and turbulence. The headlights and door handles also feature a smooth design, with the handles being “fully flush” against the doors to lessen side profile drag and the small headlights that emphasize the clean exterior, according to the company’s website.

Sustainable interior: Polestar has utilized sustainable materials for the interior of the vehicle, such as “bio-attributed MicroTech (a vegan leather alternative made from vinyl and recycled polyester), animal welfare-certified leather from Bridge of Weir, and fully traceable wool upholsteries,” the press release stated.

REMEMBER- Polestar has been struggling to stay afloat amidst a tightening EV market: China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group revealed last week that it is planning to acquire its subsidiary Volvo Car AB's 48% stake in Polestar, as the Swedish EV maker struggles to compete in the competitive EV market, especially amidst reported drops in demand. The transaction is expected to relieve financial pressure off Volvo amid a slow EV market and record-low Polestar shares as the automaker faces software-development issues and a delayed launch of its latest model. Polestar also saw its valuation scrubbed by bank analysts in January on the back of weak preliminary returns.

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