Asger Risom
After setbacks in the U.S. and China, Swedish EV brand Polestar is doubling down on Europe. With new models and expansion into France, the company aims to secure long-term growth in its strongest market.
After setbacks in the U.S. and China, Swedish EV brand Polestar is doubling down on Europe. With new models and expansion into France, the company aims to secure long-term growth in its strongest market.
European Sales Soar in 2025
Polestar’s European sales jumped over 80% in the first half of 2025. Much of the growth is credited to the successful launch of its new SUVs, the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4.
New Flagship Sedan: Polestar 5
The upcoming Polestar 5—a luxury sedan set to rival the Porsche Taycan and BMW i7—is a cornerstone of the company’s European strategy and aims to cement its position in the premium EV segment.
CEO: “Europe Is Our Future”
Polestar CEO Michael Lohscheller called Europe the brand’s “most important and fastest-growing market,” stating that the company’s focus is now fully centered on the region.
U.S. Sales Hit by Tariffs
High import tariffs on China-made Polestar vehicles have priced out many American buyers. Sales in the U.S. dropped nearly 25% in the first half of 2025 alone.
Challenges in China Despite Local Ties
Despite being owned and manufactured in China, Polestar continues to face branding hurdles there. The brand is still perceived as foreign, limiting domestic appeal.
France Joins the Portfolio
A key part of the European push is Polestar’s expansion into France—the continent’s fourth-largest car market. This move is expected to significantly boost brand presence.
Momentum Builds Against Rivals
With strong sales, fresh models, and strategic expansion, Polestar is positioning itself to take on established European players like Porsche and BMW.
Europe Becomes the Anchor
Faced with geopolitical and branding challenges abroad, Polestar now sees Europe not just as a growth opportunity—but as the foundation of its global future.
