[poleposition]

Tesla might have been early to the game but Volvo has been in the automotive game for far longer and the Polestar 2 among other rivals from German, Japanese, Chinese and American brands will be out. For now I'll focus on the two titled. I have a feel these will be the most cross-shopped till I see what other brands have in store.

As it stands, here's what we know about the Polestar 2:

• Direct rival to the Tesla Model 3
• Euro MSRP: 40,000 Euros
• Range: 500 km
• Power: 400-hp
  
  
• Debut at 2019 Geneva Motor Show (March 2019)
• Launches late 2019

 

[Olofsson]

Build quality is going to be vastly different between these two EV's. I'm sure you've noticed the panel gaps and paint issues plaguing ever newer Model 3's. Hitting their new production goals is only resulting in less QA.

 

[poleposition]

Build quality is going to be vastly different between these two EV's. I'm sure you've noticed the panel gaps and paint issues plaguing ever newer Model 3's. Hitting their new production goals is only resulting in less QA.

Now Hyundai released the Kona Electric. I heard mixed feedback about their build quality but I'm willing to give them a shot. Design wise, its next in line from anything polestar to me at least.

 

[poleposition]

Tesla's days are finally numbered as of today's P2 announcement (46min video below)

Biggest takeaway for me is price. It starts out like the Model 3 from the low $40k (USD). If you want more, 310 miles of range for $11,000 less than a comparable ugly Model 3 is optional. At that price it still comes with AWD! On top of the fact its a better looking vehicle in every way.

 

[Gunnar]

Yes the P2 competes with the Model 3 on paper, but I think they attract much different buyers. A lot of people are buying into Tesla for the technology and the incredible support and infrastructure that's already in place.

 

[poleposition]

Things will really heat up now that pre-orders for the polestar 2 are going through especially now that the full configurator lauched and test mules are more visible. One of them in Sweden was shared by Volvo's exec in a video clip.
Even under all the camo it looks great among other every day Volvo's and IMO better than Tesla 3's
video:

https://twitter.com/i/web/status/1111627704481312771

 

[Olofsson]

Everyone is looking to Tesla as a benchmark since they've really been the key pioneer in the segment, but rarely does anyone cross shop domestic brands with those from Europe. Many of the initial buyers for the P2 will be existing Volvo customers.

 

[poleposition]

Everyone is looking to Tesla as a benchmark since they've really been the key pioneer in the segment, but rarely does anyone cross shop domestic brands with those from Europe. Many of the initial buyers for the P2 will be existing Volvo customers.

I have actually see many first time buyers shop new Volvo's.
That should say a lot about Volvo's future if they keep this innovative streak up. I'm already seeing enough models from them to paint some great years ahead of sales.

 

[poleposition]

Now Polestar has come out to back its new small sedan as a great Model 3 alternative:
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“I think the equipment, the fit, the finish of the car are exceptional,” Goodman said. “And I think it makes a wonderful alternative to the highly successful Tesla Model 3. Dimensionally, it’s pretty similar to a Tesla Model 3 and I think it creates an alternative and joins the competition in and around it where there hasn’t been much. We happen to believe it’s a great alternative, but I think that’s for the customer to come in and have a look and decide.”
__________________
“Nobody quite yet has been able to out-Tesla Tesla,” pricing and industry analyst at Edmunds, Jeremy Avevedo said. “Jaguar has had a full-electric SUV hit the market [the I-Pace[] and that’s kind of been met with lackluster demand. The Audi e-tron, as well, really isn’t getting close to the Model 3 as far as sales numbers. These vehicles that have been billed as ‘Tesla killers’ really haven’t competed with the brand as far as market demand and sales thus far.”
__________________
“Our research has shown time and time again that the people who are interested in electric vehicles, almost always have a very high-tech mindset,” vice president of industry analysis for AutoPacific, Ed Kim said. “Their interest in technology extends far beyond just the powertrain technology in the car … They’re total technology enthusiasts.”

 

[Haf]

Hatchback versus saloon is a major difference (at least for me) - next to price & range.

 

[poleposition]

Given enough time I know Polestar can easily steal away Tesla Model 3 customers. Volvo/Polestar has the cash flow. Just a matter of seeing it invested and playing out over time. Already the P2 is winning me over.

 

[Ken]

One car you guys forgot to add is the upcoming Ford Mustang Mach E. That's a definite competitor to the Polestar 2.

 

[KeyMajor]

I found this great photo on the Polestar Reddit page that shows the Model 3 and Polestar 2 side by side. The biggest standout is how bland Teslas designs are becoming.