Auto Manufacturer Polestar Begins Operations in France
Polestar, the electric performance car brand spun out of Volvo, is making strides in its European expansion. In 2026, the company plans to reignite its expansion efforts, with Central Europe and Latin America in its sights.
The key development is the production of the Polestar 7, a premium compact electric SUV, which is set to begin manufacturing in 2028 at Volvo Cars' new facility in Košice, Slovakia. This plant represents a strategic European manufacturing footprint for Polestar and Volvo, supporting their shared electric vehicle platforms and efficient production synergy.
In contrast, there is no specific information or announced plans in the search results about Polestar's entry or expansion in Latin America by 2026. The available sources focus on European production, especially the new Slovakian plant that complements existing Volvo production in Belgium and Sweden.
Polestar's foray into the European market has been successful so far. Europe accounts for 75% of Polestar's global sales, with France being one of the top three European markets, alongside the UK and Sweden. The brand officially launched in France in 2022, offering its full lineup, including Polestar 2, 3, and 4, with prices starting at €46,800.
Customers can purchase vehicles online or through retail partners leveraging Volvo Cars' existing network. Polestar drivers in France will have access to over 100 Volvo service points nationwide. However, the brand has put further rollouts on hold in 2022.
Polestar's expansion comes amidst challenges in the global electric vehicle market. The company, backed by China's Geely, is facing headwinds including slower global EV demand and tariff pressures. Despite these challenges, Polestar is prioritizing more profitable and receptive markets, particularly in Europe.
The brand began its retail presence in France with a debut in Le Mans in July, followed by up to ten additional cities by year-end. Polestar is offering a large $25,000 discount on the Polestar 3 SUV in Canada for customers who either pay cash or arrange their own financing.
The delay in Polestar's French debut was due to a logo dispute with Stellantis-owned PSA, which was resolved in 2022. This resolution marked a significant milestone for Polestar's entry into the French market and its continued expansion across Europe.
In summary, Polestar is making significant strides in its European expansion, with the production of the Polestar 7 set to begin in Slovakia in 2028. However, the company's plans for Latin America remain unclear.
- In line with Polestar's European expansion, the technology revolution in the automotive industry continues with the production of the Polestar 7, a premium compact electric SUV, set to begin manufacturing in 2028 at Volvo Cars' new facility in Košice, Slovakia.
- While Central Europe and Latin America are identified as potential future markets for Polestar, the specific details of its expansion plans into Latin America, particularly for 2026, have not been announced, leaving the technology-driven future of Polestar in this region uncertain.
