There is a new player in the all-electric vehicle market, but Elon Musk doesn’t have to move over just yet. Production on the new Polestar 2 began in China in March 2020, right before the coronavirus pandemic forced automotive plants around the world to shut their doors. Polestar has plans to enter the North American market in late summer 2020, regardless of the current economic downturn.

They intend to open retail locations in California and New York simultaneously with the release of the new 2021 Polestar 2 model. Tesla Motors isn’t worried about the competition just yet, with reported Q1 revenue growth of 32 percent compared to last year.

Overview of the Polestar 2

Part of the Volvo Car Group, the new Polestar 2 is the second electric car in the company’s product line. The Polestar 1 is a plug-in hybrid as opposed to the Polestar 2, which is considered to be a battery-electric vehicle (BEV). The 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack allows for a range of 275 miles. The electricity that is stored in the battery will give off 408 hp and 487 lb-ft of torque.

The 2021 Polestar 2 will have an acceleration rate of fewer than 5 seconds when going from 0 to 62 mph. Standard features, such as the panoramic moonroof and premium Harman Kardon stereo package, will add to the look and feel of the comfortable interior.

A much-talked-about highlight of the Polestar is the advanced infotainment system that will run off the Android Auto platform that is supported by Google Assistant. Options will include a Nappa leather interior package, 20-inch spoked wheels, and a $5,000 performance pack. The Polestar 2 will be available in five metallic color choices.

The 2021 Tesla Model 3

The 2021 Tesla Model 3 will not have any major visual changes, running off the same third-generation concept of the 2017 vehicle. The dual-motor in the all-wheel-drive vehicle digitally controls the torque going to both the front and back wheels. This allows for precision handling and a class-leading acceleration rate of 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds.

Edmunds reported that the new version of the EV may offer a new battery option that allows an extended driving range. There have also been rumors of additional features added to the Autopilot technology that will allow the Tesla Model 3 to stop on its own at traffic signals and stop signs. At this point, it’s all speculation until late 2020 when the anticipated vehicle is scheduled to be released.

The Polestar 2 vs. the Tesla Model 3

The Polestar 2’s starting price of $59,900 may prove to be a deterrent to consumers as the Tesla Model 3 has a much lower starting price tag of $39,990. While there will be lucrative incentives and rebates offered, once options and additional processing fees are added, the cost of the Polestar 2 will be closer to $70,000.

It’s yet to be seen if the Polestar 2 will be able to challenge the Tesla Model 3 with such a hefty price difference. Musk is known for saying, “Tesla has no competitors who make electric cars. The competition lies within companies that have no plans to initiate a transition into an electric future.”

Are EV drivers looking for something different?

Consumers looking for an eco-friendly option may look a little more closely at the Polestar 2. Even though the price is considerably higher than the Tesla Model 3, they may be enticed by the sustainability features that include low C02 emissions and the use of all vegan materials for the interior.

Drivers who aren’t concerned about price may opt for the flashier feel of the Polestar 2 in comparison to the stark interior that is found in all the Tesla models. It will be interesting to watch which vehicle comes out on top when the economy returns to a normal pace, and people start looking at purchasing vehicles again.