Polestar is operated in New Zealand by the Giltrap Group

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Polestar 3: Manufactured in the USA

A significant milestone in our journey begins today: the start of production for our luxury SUV, Polestar 3, in Ridgeville, South Carolina. This marks the first time a Polestar vehicle will be manufactured on American soil, and it’s a development that’s as much about our future as it is about serving our customers today.

Polestar 3 outside factory in Ridgeville, South Carolina

Why U.S. production matters 

Manufacturing Polestar 3 in the United States is a strategic decision that reflects our commitment to one of our most important markets. The U.S. has always had a unique relationship with the SUV – there’s a deep-seated appreciation for vehicles that combine power, versatility, and comfort. With Polestar 3, we’re bringing something new to the table: a luxury electric SUV that embodies Scandinavian design principles and cutting-edge technology, built right here in America.

“Manufacturing Polestar 3 in the USA is a crucial step for us. Now we offer customers in America an electric SUV that is built in America,” says Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath. This move not only strengthens our presence in the U.S. but also allows us to better meet the needs of American consumers, who increasingly prioritise sustainability without compromising on performance or design.

Polestar 3 about to drive out the factory gate in Ridgeville, South Carolina.
Close-up of production of Polestar 3 in Ridgeville, South Carolina
I strongly believe this is the best-looking and best-driving SUV in the market today
Thomas Ingenlath, Polestar CEO

Innovation meets tradition  

Situated in South Carolina, a state with a rich automotive heritage, this facility represents the future of American manufacturing as it transitions toward electrification. The Ridgeville plant is now at the forefront of this transformation, blending advanced technology with the craftsmanship that South Carolina is known for.

By establishing production in Ridgeville, Polestar is not only contributing to this evolution but is also helping to define the future of automotive manufacturing in the state.

However, starting production in Ridgeville was no small feat. It required careful planning and execution, leveraging our asset-light approach to manufacturing. This model allows us to maximise efficiency and scalability by working closely with industry leader Volvo, who bring decades of expertise to the table. Built by Volvo, the Ridgeville factory has been adapted to meet our specific needs, underscoring the strength of our collaboration.

The power of our asset-light model 

Our asset-light model is a core element of Polestar’s strategy. By focusing on design, innovation, and brand development, we avoid the heavy burden of owning extensive production infrastructure.

Built on a new all-electric technology base shared with the Volvo EX90, we’ve been able to quickly establish a state-of-the-art production line for Polestar 3 in Ridgeville, ensuring that our vehicles meet the highest standards of quality and performance. The synergy between Polestar and Volvo is evident in every Polestar 3 that rolls off the production line.

What Polestar 3 means for the U.S. market 

Built for the electric age, Polestar 3 combines sleek, Scandinavian design with the latest in automotive technology and driving dynamics. It’s a vehicle that’s as much at home on the streets of New York City as it is on the backroads of Montana.

Thomas sums it up well: “I strongly believe this is the best-looking and best-driving SUV in the market today.” With features like centralised core computing powered by NVIDIA, a suite of advanced safety systems, and a driving experience that’s both dynamic and comfortable, Polestar 3 is designed to meet the unique needs of American drivers.

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Expanding our global footprint 

Our decision to build Polestar 3 in the U.S. is part of a broader global strategy aimed at expanding our presence in key markets. By producing vehicles in both the U.S. and China, we’re able to serve North America, Europe, and Asia more effectively, reducing lead times and costs while enhancing our ability to respond to regional demand.

The Ridgeville facility also plays a crucial role in our export strategy. Vehicles produced here are not only destined for American roads but will also be shipped to Europe, further solidifying our global reach. 

What’s next? 

The launch of Polestar 3 production in the U.S. is a significant achievement, but it’s just one part of our broader vision.

With plans already underway to start building the Polestar 4 in South Korea by 2025, we’re committed to expanding our global footprint and continuing to innovate in the EV space.

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Polestar is operated in New Zealand by the Giltrap Group