Polestar, the Swedish electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, is making significant strides in its production strategy. Beginning this year, the Polestar 4, the brand’s flagship model, will be produced in Korea. This move responds to consumer concerns over the vehicle’s previous production in China and aims to bolster the brand’s competitiveness and reliability in the market.
Domestic Production to Boost Dependability
Starting in the second half of this year, the Polestar 4 will be manufactured at Renault Korea’s Busan plant, replacing the previous facility in Hangzhou, China. This shift caters to the growing domestic market and enhances the vehicle’s competitiveness for export, mainly to North America.
The switch to domestic production is expected to improve the vehicle’s reputation, mainly as it will likely feature key components, such as locally sourced batteries. This transition aligns with the increasing preference for “Made in Korea” products, which South Korean consumers perceive as more reliable and trusted.
Concerns Over Chinese Production Begin to Fade
In the past, concerns over the quality of components and safety issues related to battery technology in Chinese-made EVs had caused some hesitation among South Korean buyers. However, with the Polestar 4 now being produced locally, these concerns are expected to dissipate, making the vehicle more appealing to domestic consumers.
The shift to Korean production is already yielding results. The Polestar 4 recently became the top-selling imported EV in South Korea, surpassing the Tesla Model Y despite the absence of EV subsidies in January. This milestone further underscores the vehicle’s increasing market acceptance.
Additionally, the Polestar 4 was recognized for its design excellence. At the 2025 Korea Car of the Year awards ceremony, it won the “Design of the Year” award, solidifying its standing in the competitive EV market.
A Premium EV with Unique Design and Sustainability Features
The Polestar 4 stands out in the EV market due to its distinctive design and focus on sustainability. Its innovative design removes the rear window and replaces it with a digital mirror, creating more space in the second row. The vehicle also incorporates a panoramic glass roof and frameless side mirrors, enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency and passengers’ sense of openness.
In keeping with the brand’s commitment to sustainability, the interior is crafted with recycled materials, and the vehicle includes solar-inspired ambient lighting, further contributing to its eco-friendly credentials.
Rising Brand Value and Competitive Edge
As Polestar 4 begins domestic production in Korea, it is poised to become even more competitive. The “Made in Korea” label is expected to significantly boost the vehicle’s brand value, particularly as global markets increasingly value the reputation for quality associated with Korean manufacturing.
An industry insider noted that this move will give Polestar 4 a strong competitive edge in the domestic market, especially for consumers who may have reservations about Chinese-made EVs. As Polestar 4 continues to wave in South Korea, it will expand its presence in international markets, including North America.
Renault Korea’s Busan plant will handle the mixed production of the Polestar 4, which will be exported to both domestic and international markets. This strategic shift positions the vehicle as a key player in the growing global EV market, benefiting from the rising reputation of Korean-made electric cars.
