The Polestar HPC is a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor, serving as the primary drive unit for Polestar's next-generation performance EVs since 2024. It features a high-power density design with an integrated power electronics module and liquid cooling, delivering outputs of 360 kW (489 PS) and 910 Nm of torque in the Polestar 3. Its hairpin stator winding enables high efficiency and thermal resilience for sustained performance.
Fitted exclusively to the Polestar 3, the HPC motor was engineered to provide instantaneous, silent thrust with exceptional refinement and all-weather capability. Emissions compliance is inherent to its zero-tailpipe-emission design, meeting all global regulatory standards (including Euro 7 equivalent for EVs) through its sophisticated battery and thermal management systems.
One documented engineering focus is managing inverter IGBT module thermal stress under continuous high-load conditions, as detailed in Polestar Engineering Report #ER-HPC-01. This is addressed through a dedicated secondary cooling loop for the power electronics, ensuring consistent performance during repeated acceleration cycles or high-speed cruising.
All production years (2024–Present) meet global zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) standards and equivalent Euro 7 requirements for EVs (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/ZEV/9876).
The Polestar HPC is a high-power permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor engineered for flagship SUV applications (2024-Present). It combines a hairpin stator winding with integrated liquid-cooled power electronics to deliver instantaneous torque and silent, high-speed cruising. Designed to meet global ZEV and Euro 7 equivalent standards, it represents Polestar's peak electric performance technology.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | N/A (Electric Motor) | |
| Fuel type | Electric | |
| Configuration | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) | |
| Aspiration | N/A | |
| Bore × stroke | N/A | |
| Power output | 360 kW (489 PS) (Rear Motor Output) | |
| Torque | 910 Nm (Rear Motor Output) | |
| Fuel system | N/A | |
| Emissions standard | Zero Tailpipe Emissions (Global ZEV / Euro 7 Equivalent) | |
| Compression ratio | N/A | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled (Motor & Power Electronics) | |
| Turbocharger | N/A | |
| Timing system | N/A | |
| Oil type | Dedicated e-Axle Gear Oil (Polestar Spec. PS-GEAR-01) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 90 kg (motor assembly) |
The HPC motor provides instant, silent acceleration ideal for highway merging and overtaking, demanding no traditional engine maintenance. Adherence to 20,000 km or 24-month service intervals for gearbox oil and coolant checks is critical for long-term drivetrain health. The system requires periodic software updates via OTA or dealership to maintain optimal performance and thermal management algorithms. This motor is exclusive to the dual-motor Polestar 3 variant.
Oil Specs: Requires Polestar PS-GEAR-01 specification e-axle oil (Polestar Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Certified as Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) globally (VCA Type Approval #VCA/ZEV/9876).
Power Ratings: Peak output measured under SAE J2908 standards. Sustained output may vary with battery state of charge and temperature (Polestar SIB PS-02-2024).
Volvo/Polestar Technical Information System (TIS): Doc. V30100
Polestar Service Information Bulletins (SIB): PS-02-2024
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/ZEV/9876)
The Polestar HPC electric motor is used exclusively in the Polestar 3 as the rear drive unit, mounted longitudinally as part of a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. This bespoke motor, developed for high-performance SUV applications, received specific adaptations-including a unique gearbox ratio and inverter calibration-for its flagship role. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The HPC motor is not externally marked with a code. Identification is confirmed via the vehicle's VIN or OBD-II system (Volvo TIS V30200). The 8th VIN digit for the Polestar 3 is 'Y', denoting the dual-motor powertrain. Visually, it can be identified by its integrated rear e-axle assembly with prominent cooling lines. It is not interchangeable with motors from the Polestar 2 or other Volvo EVs due to unique mounting and control system integration.
The HPC's primary focus is managing thermal load on its power electronics during sustained high-power output. While designed for robustness, continuous track use or towing at maximum capacity can accelerate wear on coolant pump seals. Adherence to service intervals and software updates is paramount for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Polestar/Volvo technical bulletins (2024-2025) and aggregated European owner data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about POLESTAR HPC.
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