The Polestar ED4 is a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, produced from 2021 to 2024 for use in Polestar's all — electric performance vehicles. It features a single — speed reduction gearbox and liquid cooling, delivering outputs up to 170 kW (231 PS) and 330 Nm of torque for responsive, instant acceleration.
Fitted primarily to the Polestar 2 Standard Range Single Motor, the ED4 was engineered for efficient urban mobility and spirited highway driving. Emission…
Polestar
As a zero-emission powertrain, the ED4 meets all applicable global emissions standards (EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007, as amended for EVs).
The Polestar ED4 is a 170 kW permanent magnet synchronous electric motor engineered for compact executive vehicles (2021-2024). It combines a single-speed reduction gearbox with sophisticated power electronics to deliver instant torque and smooth, quiet operation. Designed as a zero-emission powertrain, it inherently complies with the strictest global environmental regulations.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Fuel type | Electric | |
Configuration | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor | |
Aspiration | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Bore × stroke | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Power output | 170 kW (231 PS) | |
Torque | 330 Nm @ 0–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Emissions standard | Zero Tailpipe Emissions | |
Compression ratio | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (dedicated circuit) | |
Turbocharger | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Timing system | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
Oil type | Dedicated e-axle fluid (Polestar P/N 31378277) | |
Dry weight | Approx. 90 kg (motor and gearbox assembly) |
The Polestar ED4 was used exclusively in the Polestar 2 with front-axle mounting. This motor is part of Polestar's modular electric drive system and, while sharing core technology with other Volvo/Polestar e-motors, has specific power ratings and control software for the Standard Range Single Motor variant, creating no direct interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The ED4's primary reliability focus is on the long-term integrity of its power electronics and associated thermal management system. While the motor itself is robust, Polestar Engineering Bulletin PS-EB-2023-04 notes potential for temporary power reduction under extreme ambient heat combined with sustained high-speed driving. Adherence to software updates is critical for mitigating this.
Analysis derived from Polestar technical bulletins (2021-2024) and EU Type Approval failure statistics (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The ED4 electric motor is fundamentally reliable due to its simple, robust design with few moving parts. Long-term reliability centers on the health of its power electronics, thermal management system, and the integrity of its seals and connectors. Regular software updates and adherence to the minimal maintenance schedule are key to ensuring longevity.
The most documented issues are temporary power reduction under extreme heat (thermal derating), minor e-axle fluid leaks from gearbox seals, and occasional software glitches causing drivetrain warnings. Corrosion in high-voltage connectors is a potential issue, usually following improper service or physical damage.
The ED4 motor was used exclusively in the front-wheel-drive, Standard Range Single Motor variant of the Polestar 2, produced from 2021 until 2024. It was not used in the Dual Motor variants or any other Polestar model.
Official tuning is not offered by Polestar. The motor and its control software are intricately calibrated for safety, efficiency, and battery longevity. While some third parties may offer software remaps, this can void warranties, destabilize the thermal management system, and potentially cause component failure or accelerated battery degradation.
Official WLTP combined energy consumption for the Polestar 2 Single Motor is approximately 181 Wh/km. Real-world figures vary significantly with driving style, climate, and use of climate control, typically ranging from 160 Wh/km on highways to over 220 Wh/km in cold, stop-start city traffic.
No. This concept does not apply to electric motors. There are no pistons, valves, or timing chains that can collide. The primary mechanical failure modes relate to bearings or the gearbox, not catastrophic internal interference.
It requires a very specific e-axle fluid (Polestar Part Number 31378277) for the integrated single-speed gearbox. This fluid is designed for electric drive units and must not be substituted. It has a very long service life, typically 150,000 km or 10 years, but should be inspected periodically for leaks.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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POLESTAR Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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