Polestar vs Tesla: The battle of the electric car prices
Polestar has previously been clear that it had no intention of engaging in a price war to achieve volume targets and wanted to maintain its position as a premium manufacturer.
It therefore came as a surprise when Polestar suddenly announced a significant price reduction on two of its most popular models, the Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor and the Polestar 2 with Performance Package. The Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor had been reduced by SEK 65,000 and the price had now been adjusted to SEK 609,000. The most interesting thing was that the new price was only SEK 170 cheaper than Tesla's equivalent Model 3. This price reduction may raise many questions, especially given the previous statement about avoiding price wars and preserving the premium position.
To understand the potential consequences of this strategic change, it is important to analyze the different aspects of the situation.
The competitive situation
Polestar's decision to lower the prices of the Polestar 2 models places them in more direct competition with the Tesla Model 3, one of the most popular electric cars on the market. The minimal price difference of SEK 170 could lead to intensified competition between the two brands.
Market position
Polestar had previously emphasized its position as a premium manufacturer. By lowering prices, they may risk losing their premium brand if they cannot maintain the high quality and experience that customers expect.
Customer choice
The price reduction has created a situation where the Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor and the Polestar 2 with Performance Package are now priced the same. This could lead to customers preferring the four-wheel drive model for its superior performance and handling advantages, which could affect sales of the rear-wheel drive variant.
Could Polestar's drastic price cut be the key to challenging Tesla in the electric car market? With the unexpected price reduction of the Polestar 2 models, the company has shown that it is willing to challenge and possibly take on Tesla. The future will reveal if this drastic change in strategy will strengthen Polestar's position in the EV market or if it comes with its own challenges and risks.