Amidst mounting tension between the EU and China, Polestar Automotive, backed by Chinese investment and known for its Swedish roots, is contemplating a significant strategic move. The company’s CEO, Thomas Ingenlath, disclosed plans to relocate the production of vehicles intended for the European market from China to its U.S. facility, in response to escalating geopolitical pressures.
Addressing concerns about potential tariffs on Chinese-made EVs in Europe, Ingenlath revealed that Polestar is considering exporting the Polestar 3 model, manufactured in South Carolina, to the European Union. While Polestar currently manufactures most of its vehicles in China, with additional production in South Carolina and plans for a facility in South Korea, the shifting geopolitical landscape is prompting a reevaluation of its manufacturing and export strategies.
Founded as a joint venture between Sweden’s Volvo Cars and China’s Geely, Polestar witnessed a significant ownership restructuring, with Volvo reducing its stake in the company. This move reflects broader challenges faced by EV startups amidst slowing sales growth and financial pressures.
The scrutiny on Chinese EV exports, particularly in Europe and the U.S., stems from allegations of overcapacity and unfair state subsidies. The European Commission’s investigation into the matter has raised uncertainties, leading Polestar to accelerate its efforts to establish a global manufacturing footprint.
Despite the shareholding changes, Ingenlath reassured that Polestar’s day-to-day operations remain unaffected. The company aims to boost deliveries, with ambitious targets set for the coming years, driven by the expansion of its luxury SUV lineup and a strategic distribution breakdown across key regions.
Ingenlath emphasized Polestar’s commitment to diversifying its sales across Europe, the United States, and the Asia-Pacific region, underscoring the company’s resilience and adaptability in navigating the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.
