New 872bhp Polestar 6 launch model sells out in just a few days

​The Polestar O2 is going into production as the Polestar 6, but the electric convertible isn’t likely to go on sale until 2026. Build slots could be reserved from 16 August for what is expected to be a direct rival to the upcoming second-generation Tesla Roadster, and the first 500 examples are spoken for already.

Prospective buyers of the high-end launch-edition specification (planned to be called the Polestar 6 LA Concept) have paid a $25,000 deposit to secure a production slot. All of these get sky blue paint, light leather upholstery, a numbered plaque and the same 21-inch wheels seen on the O2 concept. It will be on show at Monterey Car Week in California later this week.

The Polestar 6 is targeting a 0-62mph time of just 3.2 seconds and a 155mph top speed, courtesy of an 872bhp dual-motor powertrain. This setup is shared with the upcoming Polestar 5, and the two cars will share the same aluminium platform.

“With the overwhelming consumer and press response, we took the decision to put this stunning roadster into production and I am so excited to make it a reality,” said Polestar CEO, Thomas Ingenlath. “Polestar 6 is a perfect combination of powerful electric performance and the thrill of fresh air with the top down.”

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The bespoke bonded aluminium platform from the flagship Polestar 5 saloon, which is currently being developed in the UK, has been adapted for use in the more dynamic drop-top. The benefits of this, Polestar claims, are tight body control and high torsional rigidity.

At 4.7 metres long, the O2 concept is longer than the upcoming Tesla Roadster. But the O2’s wheelbase is also 400mm shorter than that of the Polestar 5 thanks to the removal of the ‘foot garages’ that provide extra room in the rear of the brand’s Mercedes EQS rival. We expect the production car’s dimensions to match the concept.

The open-top Polestar’s styling is also an evolution of the design language previewed by the Precept prototype. That includes a very minimalist cabin, a low stance and wide, pronounced wheelarches. The 6 also displays a new take on the brand’s ‘Thor’s Hammer’ quad headlight design, while at the rear, there's a full-width lightbar, which extends at its edges into small ‘air blades’ to reduce turbulence behind the car.

They’re one of many aerodynamic touches Polestar added to the O2 concept, including integrated air ducts that improve air flow over the wheels and sides of the car, as well as replacing the conventional door mirrors with digital cameras – all in the name of maximising range and efficiency.

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Being a Polestar, it puts sustainability front and centre. For example, recycled polyester is the only material used for all the soft components in the cockpit, from foam to 3D-knit fibres. This simplifies the recycling and manufacturing processes, as well as reducing weight and waste.

In terms of technology, one unique feature of the Polestar O2 is an autonomous cinematic drone, integrated behind the rear seats, that can be deployed by the driver while on the move. The drone can follow the car at up to 56mph and offers different options for the type of sequence you want it to record, from a calm cruise up the coast to something more action-packed and focused. 

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After filming, the drone can autonomously return to the car. Video clips can then be edited and shared directly via the 15-inch central touchscreen when the car is parked. When the Polestar 6 does enter production, this is one element that’s unlikely to be retained.

Polestar currently has its first SUV slated to launch later this year, with a sportier coupe-SUV arriving in 2023. The Polestar 5 is due to launch in 2024.