The 10-year program, which started in 2020, is divided into three phases, ultimately leading to production by 2030.
“Three years before that point, we need to start detailed product development in the automotive business: 36 months is quite common.” If the research program makes a breakthrough this year or next, the team could apply the lessons learned to current models or new cars launching in 2024, 2025, or 2026.
Factors such as materials, structures, and processes are being considered in the research. Polestar has already tapped 30 companies to ensure the success of the 0 program. One is SSAB, and the company showcased seats from fossil-free steel, plastics from Dama BioPlastics from plant waste, and PaperShell, which turns paper back into wood.
This is an initiative automakers are championing in the quest for producing more sustainable cars. One example is Kia, which integrated many greener materials for the EV9, such as bioplastic, recycled PET fabric, and bio paint.