The Polestar 3, the latest addition to the Polestar lineup of electric vehicles (EVs), has recently undergone rigorous testing in the scorching heat of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is one of the last stages of testing before it becomes ready to launch to the public. The company says production is planned to start in the first quarter of 2024.
Thomas Ingenlath, the CEO of Polestar, says: “The Polestar 3 development and testing programme is progressing well, and I expect production to start in Q1 2024. Polestar 3 is at the start of its journey and customers can now visit our retail locations around the world to see its great proportions and sit in its exclusive and innovative interior.”
Why is hot weather testing important?
Hot weather testing is a crucial phase of vehicle development where prototypes are subjected to intense heat and extreme climate conditions to evaluate their performance and durability. This process allows automakers to identify any potential weaknesses or vulnerabilities that may arise when vehicles are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods.
The extreme climate conditions in the UAE provide a perfect real-world environment for assessing the vehicle’s capabilities under harsh circumstances.
Hot weather testing plays a vital role in ensuring that vehicles can withstand challenging climates without compromising their performance or safety. By simulating real-world scenarios, automakers can assess how different components of a vehicle respond under extreme heat, such as engine cooling systems, electrical systems, battery performance, interior comfort features, and more. It enables manufacturers to refine their designs and make necessary adjustments before production begins.
The Polestar 3 combines Scandinavian minimalism and purity with the key ingredients of a sport utility vehicle.
The significance of UAE for hot weather testing
The decision to conduct hot weather testing in the UAE demonstrates Geely-owned Polestar’s commitment to pushing boundaries when it comes to extreme conditions. With scorching temperatures often exceeding 50C during summer months, the desert nation provides an ideal location for evaluating a vehicle’s resilience against intense heat.
The UAE’s arid desert landscapes and relentless sun exposure create a challenging environment. UAE cities also present high humidity levels, with Dubai reaching up to 90% on hot days. By subjecting the Polestar 3 to these conditions, engineers were able to gain valuable insights into its performance limits and ensure that it meets the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Speaking to Clean Technica, Clément Heinen, the Product Attribute Leader leading the Polestar 3 tests observed: “The moments you capture testing in the UAE you might not notice anywhere else in the world. In the peak of summer, it’s just about the most extreme place you would ever expect a customer to drive. We go there because no amount of simulation can mimic a real-world test. You can run a marathon on a treadmill, but it’s very different doing it in real life.”
Apart from UAE, automakers often choose other scorching locations like Death Valley in California, Arizona or Nevada, or Alice Springs in Australia for hot weather testing due to their extreme climate conditions.
Testing methodology
Hot weather testing subjects a vehicle to a series of tests designed to evaluate its performance and durability under intense heat.
These tests include the “Heat Soak Test” where the vehicle is parked under direct sunlight for extended periods to simulate real-world scenarios where drivers leave their cars parked outdoors.
A Thermal Management System Evaluation measures the efficiency of the thermal management system by monitoring the battery temperature during prolonged drives in high-temperature conditions.
The Charging Performance Assessment assesses the charging capabilities of the car by conducting multiple fast-charging sessions under extreme heat.
And, apart from the technical aspects of the testing, the driver and passengers in the car need to be kept cool, so the performance of the air conditioning and ventilation systems are also tested.
The Polestar 3 seems to have come through the testing very well, withstanding extreme heat conditions without compromising performance or safety and with no significant reported impact on battery performance or range. And Polestar’s testers didn’t report any thermal management system or battery temperature issues during extended drives.
About the Polestar 3
The Polestar 3 is an all-electric SUV specifically designed to tackle challenging terrains while providing a comfortable driving experience. It combines sustainable mobility with powerful performance and cutting-edge technology. With its sleek design and spacious interior, this EV is set to be a very competitive entrant to the crowded SUV market.
The car boasts an advanced all-wheel drive system that ensures optimal traction on various surfaces, including sandy deserts or rocky terrains.
It also features a fast-charging, high-capacity 111 kWh battery pack providing generous driving range of up to 610 km WLTP. The standard car produces a total of 360 kW and 840 Nm of torque. With the optional Performance Pack, total output is 380 kW and 910 Nm. Adjustable one-pedal drive is included, as well as an electric Torque Vectoring Dual Clutch function on the rear axle.
State-of-the-art safety features such as advanced driver assistance systems and collision avoidance technology prioritize passenger safety even in extreme conditions.
“Polestar 3 is a powerful electric SUV that appeals to the senses with a distinct, Scandinavian design and excellent driving dynamics,” concludes Thomas Ingenlath.
So whether it’s tackling desert heat or embarking on off-road adventures, this EV is set to take on the challenge head on.
