Polestar has unveiled the O2 concept, which previews a future production electric roadster, and features its very own drone

GOTHENBURG, SWEDEN

Swedish electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Polestar has unveiled the O2 Concept, which points the way towards the future of electric open-top motoring, and features unique innovations like its very own drone. The O2 Concept takes the form of a 2+2 roadster with a folding hardtop, and the car’s design borrows cues from Polestar’s earlier concept from 2020, the Precept.

The electric drivetrain allows it to have short overhangs and a long wheelbase, but it still features classic sports car proportions like a low and wide body with compact dimensions. Design elements like the disguised air ducts over the wheels and sides help with aerodynamics, while the rear lights also function as air blades to reduce turbulence behind the car. 

A unique feature on the O2 is the in-car drone that is integrated behind the rear seats, and can be deployed while the car is moving. The drone can operate autonomously and follow the car at speeds of up to 90km/h, capturing images and video footage which can be edited and shared on social media via the 15-inch infotainment touchscreen display.

The O2 uses a bonded aluminium platform similar to the one used on the upcoming Polestar 5 four-door GT, and the brand’s head of design, Maximilian Missoni, says that this gives the car plenty of taut rigidity, while still remaining light and lively to drive. He adds that the damping had been tuned to minimise roll, while the steering will be agile, direct and linear.

Like Polestar’s other cars, the O2 follows the brand’s sustainability philosophy, and this is reflected in the use of recycled polyester in all the soft components of the interior, namely the seats and door trims. The aluminium used in the construction of the car comes in three different grades, allowing them to be more easily recycled.

Here’s a Polestar you can buy and drive right now

Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath envisions it as a “hero car” for the brand, and hinted that it is a strong candidate for production, likely after 2025. In the meantime, Polestar has plans to expand its lineup beyond the current Tesla Model 3-fighting Polestar 2, with the Polestar 3 and 4 SUVs next in line to be launched later this year, followed by the Polestar 5 that is slated to debut in 2024.

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