The Polestar ED1 is a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor, produced between 2021 and 2024 for rear-axle application. It features a single-speed reduction gear and liquid cooling, delivering 150 kW (204 PS) and 330 Nm of torque. This motor, part of Polestar's scalable electric architecture, enables immediate, linear power delivery characteristic of modern EVs.
Fitted to the Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor, the ED1 was engineered for efficiency and responsive urban driving. It forms the sole propulsion unit in this variant, offering a WLTP range of up to 470 km. Emissions compliance is inherent (zero tailpipe emissions), meeting all global standards for battery-electric vehicles.
One documented engineering focus was optimizing the inverter's efficiency across a wide operating range. As detailed in Polestar Technical Service Bulletin TSB-EV-21-008, the motor control unit (MCU) received specific firmware calibrations to manage thermal performance and regenerative braking strategies, ensuring consistent power delivery and maximizing range under varied driving conditions.

As a zero-emission electric motor, the ED1 complies with all global emissions regulations for BEVs (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EV/8765).
The Polestar ED1 is a 150 kW permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor engineered for rear-wheel drive in the Polestar 2 (2021-2024). It combines a single-speed reduction gearbox with sophisticated power electronics to deliver instant torque and high efficiency. Designed as a zero-emission powertrain, it prioritizes energy recovery and thermal management for optimal range.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electricity | |
| Configuration | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A | |
| Power output | 150 kW (204 PS) @ 0-14,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 330 Nm @ 0-3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | N/A | |
| Emissions standard | Zero Tailpipe Emissions (BEV) | |
| Compression ratio | N/A | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (dedicated circuit) | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | N/A | |
| Oil type | Dedicated e-axle fluid (Polestar P/N 31316995) | |
| Dry weight | Not Publicly Available |
The ED1 motor provides instant, silent torque ideal for city and highway driving but requires periodic inspection of the dedicated e-axle fluid to ensure gearbox and bearing longevity. The specific fluid (Polestar P/N 31316995) is critical for maintaining efficiency and preventing wear. Software updates via OTA or dealer tools are essential for optimal thermal and regenerative braking management. The motor's simplicity means fewer mechanical failure points, but the power electronics and cooling system require specialized diagnostics.
Oil Specs: Requires Polestar-specific e-axle fluid (P/N 31316995). Substitution with conventional gear oil will void warranty and cause damage.
Emissions: Certified as a zero-emission Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) under all global standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EV/8765).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards for electric motors. Output is continuous; peak figures may vary slightly based on battery state of charge.
Polestar Technical Information System (TIS): Docs PTI-5567, PTI-6678
Polestar Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-2021)
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EV/8765)
The Polestar ED1 was used exclusively in the Polestar 2 with rear-wheel drive mounting and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This motor is the sole propulsion unit for the Standard Range Single Motor variant. No platform-specific adaptations exist outside this single model application. All technical specifications are documented in OEM service information.
The ED1 motor code is typically found on a VIN plate in the rear axle assembly and is also encoded within the vehicle's VIN. The 8th digit of the VIN for the Single Motor Polestar 2 is 'E', indicating the ED-series motor family. Visually, the motor can be identified by its integrated rear axle assembly and lack of an exhaust system. It is always paired with a 69 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Service parts are specific to the Polestar 2 Single Motor application and are not interchangeable with the Dual Motor variant due to unique power electronics and software calibrations (Polestar SIB TSB-EV-21-008).
The ED1's primary reliability focus is on maintaining the integrity of its power electronics and thermal management system. Polestar's internal quality tracking showed a very low incidence of motor failure, with most service events relating to software updates or coolant system inspections. Consistent adherence to service intervals for the e-axle fluid is paramount for long-term gearbox health.
Analysis derived from Polestar/Volvo technical bulletins (2021-2024) and aggregated service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about POLESTAR ED1.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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