Polestar's Arctic Circle EVs Shine at FAT Ice Race

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Polestar began as Volvo's performance division before transitioning to an all-electric brand in 2017.

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In 2015, the racing business was spun off under Cyan Racing while Polestar pivoted to EVs.

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Polestar marketed itself primarily on sustainability, but recent moves show a shift back toward performance.

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"It's easier to develop on ice because everything is in slow motion," explains Joakim Rydholm.

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This "slow-motion" testing approach allows Polestar engineers to fine-tune vehicle dynamics with precision.

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Testing occurs primarily in Jokkmokk, Lapland, where frozen lake beds provide ideal conditions.

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"If you drive over a bump, the car should be well-damped and not bounce," Rydholm notes.

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Development times have shortened dramatically thanks to computerization and over-the-air updates.

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