Polestar’s latest concept might make you want to book a trip to Europe in the next year or two.
The Sweden-based, China-owned EV maker just unveiled a futuristic “hot hatch” called the Formula 2030. The vehicle, which comes from the pen of the marque’s head of design, Philipp Römers, is said to preview the brand’s evolving visual identity.
There aren’t many classes of vehicles that can match the utility of the hatchback. But, thanks to the legendary Renault 5 Turbo and Lancia Delta Integrale, enthusiasts of a certain age know they can also be thrilling, high-performance cars. And the Formula 2030 looks like it could be the next great hot hatch—should it ever go into production.
Polestar Formula 2030
Stefan Isaksson/Polestar
Polestar does not explicitly call its latest design study a hot hatch, but it features the same distinctive profile as every entry in the class. We’re especially fond of its sculpted lines, wide stance, and the prominent spoiler coming off its roof. Its minimalistic design features several of the brand’s trademarks, like “Dual Blade” headlights, along with a couple new elements we wouldn’t mind seeing more of, like the “UFO-esque” rear. It looks, undoubtedly, like a powerful vehicle meant to be driven at high speeds.
Just as intriguing is the interior. It’s a four-door and looks surprisingly spacious inside. The front half of the cabin features two pod-like areas, one for the driver and the other for their passenger. The cockpit has a curved display, while a second is integrated into the center console. That element also offers up a variety of tactile controls, including a drive-mode selector. The company says the concept features autonomous drive capabilities.
Inside the Formula 2030
Stefan Isaksson/Polestar
Polestar did not announce plans to put the Formula 2030 into production. But, it did say that the design study does preview elements of the look of the upcoming second-generation 2, which is expected to launch next year, and the upcoming 7, which should arrive in 2028. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like either of those EVs will make it to our shores anytime soon. Earlier this year, the automaker was banned from selling vehicles in the U.S. starting with the 2027 model year due to a new Department of Commerce rule. The regulation, which is called the U.S. Connected Vehicles Rule, restricts the import and sale of trademark of the class is internet-connected vehicles linked to China or Russia.
Click here for more photos of the Polestar Formula 2030.
Stefan Isaksson/Polestar
