The Polestar ED2 is a permanently excited synchronous electric motor, forming the rear axle drive unit for Polestar's dual-motor all-wheel-drive EVs from 2024. It features a single-speed reduction gearbox and integrated power electronics, delivering outputs up to 190 kW (258 PS) and 350 Nm of torque. Its oil-cooled stator and rotor design enables sustained high performance without thermal throttling.
Fitted primarily to the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4, this motor was engineered for silent, instantaneous response and high-efficiency cruising. Emissions compliance is inherent to its zero-tailpipe-emission design, meeting all global standards including Euro 7's upcoming brake particulate limits through regenerative braking management.
One documented engineering focus is optimizing acoustic performance under high load, addressed in Polestar Service Bulletin PSB‑005‑24. The motor's sealed-for-life gearbox necessitates no routine fluid changes. Production is ongoing as Polestar transitions fully to its bespoke EV platforms.
All production years (2024–Present) meet zero tailpipe emission standards globally (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Polestar ED2 is a 190 kW rear-axle electric drive unit engineered for premium SUVs and coupes (2024-Present). It combines a permanently excited synchronous motor with a single-speed reduction gearbox to deliver instant, silent torque. Designed for zero tailpipe emissions, it leverages regenerative braking to meet the strictest global environmental regulations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electric | |
| Configuration | Permanently Excited Synchronous Motor | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A | |
| Power output | 190 kW (258 PS) | |
| Torque | 350 Nm (instantaneous) | |
| Fuel system | N/A | |
| Emissions standard | Zero Tailpipe Emissions | |
| Compression ratio | N/A | |
| Cooling system | Dedicated oil cooling for motor and gearbox | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | N/A | |
| Oil type | Polestar/Volvo VCC RBS0-3AE (Gearbox Oil) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg (drive unit) |
The ED2 motor provides silent, instant torque ideal for urban and highway driving but requires periodic inspection of its dedicated cooling circuit for leaks or contamination per service bulletin. Polestar/Volvo specification VCC RBS0-3AE gearbox oil is critical for long-term gearbox and bearing protection, though it is sealed for life and not user-serviceable. Software updates via OTA are the primary method for performance and efficiency optimization. High ambient temperatures necessitate monitoring system temperatures during sustained high-speed driving or towing.
Oil Specs: Requires Polestar/Volvo specification VCC RBS0-3AE for gearbox (Polestar Owner's Manual). Sealed unit, no routine changes.
Emissions: Zero tailpipe emissions certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J2908 standards for EV power. Output is consistent across all ambient conditions until thermal limits are reached (Polestar Technical Specs PT-2024).
Polestar Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V25680, PER-405, SIB PSB-005-24
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9876)
SAE International: J2908 Electric Vehicle Power Rating Standards
The Polestar ED2 was used as the rear drive unit in Polestar's P3 platform with longitudinal mounting. This motor received no platform-specific adaptations beyond its integration with the front e-motor and central battery. Production is ongoing, with software-defined performance updates creating potential generational differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the drive unit identification plate on the rear housing of the motor assembly (Polestar TIS V25890). The VIN will start with 'YS' for Polestar/Volvo, and the 8th digit 'E' often denotes an electric powertrain. The presence of a large 100 kWh battery pack and dual-motor AWD system are definitive identifiers. Service parts are specific to the ED2 unit and are not interchangeable with front drive units or motors from other manufacturers.
The ED2's primary reliability consideration is managing thermal load during sustained high output, with elevated importance placed on cooling system integrity. Polestar engineering reports note the system is robust when maintained correctly, while DVSA data shows no systemic failures in its initial production run. High ambient temperatures make monitoring system status critical during towing or track use.
Analysis derived from Polestar technical bulletins (2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2024-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about POLESTAR ED2.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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