Swedish electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Polestar announced today it will open a new research facility in the Midlands, creating employment opportunities for more than 800 people.
Polestar opened a MIRA-based site in the Midlands in 2019 as the home of its UK R&D operations, which will soon expand to include a second facility.
By the end of 2023, more than 800 engineers will be employed by Polestar across the two sites, around 250 remaining at MIRA, and they will be responsible for engineering Polestar vehicles. Powertrain, battery and software development will remain in Gothenburg, Sweden
Polestar has also confirmed that the forthcoming Polestar 5 electric performance 4-door GT will feature a brand-new, bespoke, bonded aluminium platform.
Bonded aluminium is light-weight and rigid, offering superlative performance and environmental advantages. While this technology has previously proven labour-intensive and difficult to use in mass production vehicles without sacrificing quality, Polestar’s 280-strong team of former Formula 1, low volume and bespoke sports cars engineers working in the heart of the UK’s Motorsport Valley in the Midlands have resolved this challenge by developing an entirely new, faster manufacturing process that develops both body and platform in unison.
As a result of the new materials and techniques involved, the body-in-white (completed platform and body) is expected to weigh less than that of cars in smaller segments, contributing to improved vehicle efficiency, real-world EV range and dynamic responsiveness, all while delivering leading safety levels. The new bonded aluminium platform will also help drive faster product introduction, high quality and platform rigidity.
Our UK R&D team is one of Polestar’s greatest assets,” says Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO. “Their mix of engineering and technological expertise enables us to develop advanced, light-weight sports car technology with a creative mindset and a spirit that embraces innovative engineering. This will set Polestar apart in the years to come.”
