Polestar has unveiled a new electric car at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich, Germany. The Polestar Synergy is a single-seater electric supercar that combines the visions of three student designers who won the 2022 Polestar Design Contest.
The contest, which received over 600 entries from around the world, challenged participants to design a Polestar vehicle centered around the experience of performance, providing an advanced technical story that enables this in a sustainable way.
The Synergy concept is the result of a six-month collaboration between the three winners and Polestar’s in-house design team. The concept's exterior is a blend of Devashish Deshmukh and Swapnil Desai’s interpretation of the 2022 contest “Performance” brief, while the interior is the work of Yingxiang Li.
A striking exterior inspired by nature
The Polestar Synergy concept features a sleek and aerodynamic body that draws inspiration from nature. The front end resembles a hammerhead shark, with a wide and low stance, sharp LED headlights, and a large air intake. The side profile is dominated by large wheels, sculpted fenders, and a distinctive canopy that opens upwards to reveal the cockpit. The rear end features a prominent diffuser, a central exhaust pipe, and a retractable spoiler.
The concept also incorporates elements of biomimicry, such as the scales on the roof and the taillights that mimic the bioluminescence of deep-sea creatures. The concept is painted in a gradient of blue and green colors that reflect the natural environment.
The Synergy concept measures 4.56 meters (179.5 inches) long and only 1.07 meters (42.1 inches) tall, making it one of the most compact and low-slung supercars ever created.
A futuristic interior focused on comfort and control
The interior of the Polestar Synergy concept is designed to provide a unique driving experience for the driver. The cockpit is accessed by lifting the canopy, revealing a hidden go-kart that can be detached and used for fun. The go-kart is powered by a battery pack that can be recharged by plugging into the main vehicle.
The cockpit features a single seat that is suspended from the roof by wires, creating a sense of floating comfort and control. The seat is adjustable in height and angle, allowing the driver to choose between a relaxed or a sporty driving position. The seat also integrates various sensors that monitor the driver’s biometric data, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and stress level.
The dashboard consists of a curved screen that displays all the relevant information for the driver, such as speed, battery level, navigation, and entertainment. The screen can also be customized to show different modes and themes, such as eco, sport, or fantasy. The steering wheel is shaped like a hexagon and features touch-sensitive controls for various functions.
The interior also uses sustainable materials like recycled plastic, vegan leather, and organic cotton. The concept also features ambient lighting and sound systems that create a relaxing or stimulating atmosphere depending on the driver’s mood.
A powerful electric drivetrain with advanced technology
The Synergy concept is powered by an electric drivetrain that delivers impressive performance and efficiency. The concept features two electric motors, one on each axle, that provide all-wheel drive and a combined output of 500 horsepower. The concept can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than 3 seconds and reach a top speed of over 300 km/h (186 mph).
The concept also features a large battery pack that provides a range of over 500 kilometers (310 miles) on a single charge. The battery can be recharged using wireless induction or fast charging stations. The concept also uses regenerative braking and solar panels to recover energy and extend the range.
The Synergy concept also incorporates advanced technology that enhances safety and convenience for the driver. The concept features an autonomous driving system that can take over in certain situations, such as traffic jams or parking. The concept also features a digital assistant that can interact with the driver using voice and gesture commands. The assistant can also connect with other devices and services, such as smartphones, smart homes, or online platforms.
A collaboration between Polestar and Mattel
The Synergy concept is a showcase of Polestar’s design vision and a collaboration between Polestar and Mattel, the toy company behind Hot Wheels and Matchbox. The concept will be immortalized as a scale model that will be available for collectors and fans worldwide.
The collaboration also includes Hot Wheels and Matchbox versions of Polestar’s production models, such as the Polestar 1 hybrid coupe, the Polestar 2 electric sedan, and the Polestar Precept electric sedan concept. These models will feature realistic details and authentic colors that reflect Polestar’s identity and values.
The collaboration between Polestar and Mattel aims to inspire the next generation of designers and engineers who will shape the future of mobility.
A fantasy supercar that proves the potential of electric vehicles
The Synergy concept is a fantasy supercar that proves the potential of electric vehicles to be exciting, innovative, and sustainable. The concept is a testament to Polestar’s design philosophy and the talent of the student designers who won the contest.
Polestar’s CEO, Thomas Ingenlath, said: “The Synergy concept is a stunning example of how electric vehicles can be just as exciting, if not more, than their ICE equivalents. It also demonstrates how Polestar supports and encourages young and creative minds who will shape the future of mobility.”
The Polestar Synergy concept is on display at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich, Germany, until September 12. After that, the concept will embark on a US tour starting from the Hot Wheels Legends Tour in El Segundo, California, on October 7. The concept will also visit various Polestar locations around the world.
