Polestar is making extensive hardware upgrades to Polestar 3 for 2026, led by an 800 volt electrical architecture that lifts overall performance. “The upgrades to Polestar 3 are so extensive, it’s like an entirely new car,” said Michael Lohscheller, Polestar’s CEO. “With this upgrade we continue to deliver on our commitment to add value for our customers through over-the-air software and hardware updates. The already amazing Polestar 3 is now better than ever.”
The new architecture enables DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, cutting the 10–80 percent benchmark to as little as 22 minutes, more than 25 percent faster than before. Efficiency improves by up to 6 percent on the WLTP cycle. New CATL batteries include a 92 kWh pack for the Rear motor version and a 106 kWh pack for Dual motor and Performance variants.
A new in-house permanent magnet synchronous rear motor pairs with an asynchronous front motor, delivering up to 500 kW in the Performance variant. The front motor can automatically disconnect when not needed, and a greater rear bias, updated anti-roll bars, and steering software refinements aim to sharpen response.
Core computing moves to the NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin processor, raising processing power from 30 to 254 TOPS. This hardware upgrade will be offered as a complimentary retrofit to existing Polestar 3 customers[1], with installations planned to begin in early 2026.
A revised lineup introduces Rear motor, Dual motor, and Performance trims, with active air suspension optional on Dual motor and standard on Performance. Options add a new Climate pack and a Prime pack, while Bowers & Wilkins audio is available as a single option or in the Plus pack. Design updates include the Storm exterior color, revised door graphics, and upgraded Bio-attributed MicroTech upholstery. Sales start first in the UK due to high demand.