Volvo's Polestar unveils carbon fibre aerodynamic enhancements
(August 28, 2017) Polestar, the performance brand of Volvo Cars, has unveiled the 2018 Volvo S60 and V60 Polestar, complete with additional aerodynamic components made from lightweight carbon fibre material that increase downforce by 30 percent for improved performance and handling. A limited number of 1,500 vehicles will be produced, with all cars receiving a unique number on the tread plate.
The new aerodynamic exterior package has been developed jointly by the engineers of Polestar and Cyan Racing, the motorsport partner of Polestar, with data and learnings derived from the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) program.
The aerodynamic enhancements include a new front splitter, side sills and a rear spoiler extension, all made in lightweight carbon fibre, increasing the downforce by 30 per cent. The new components increase grip and high-speed stability, providing a car with the duality of being at ease in everyday driving as well as providing the driver with further control and feedback on an inspiring stretch of road or during an evasive maneuver for example.
Many of these components were developed and tested during Polestar Cyan Racing’s recently-revealed secret Nürburgring test where a Polestar S60 claimed the record for the fastest four-door road legal car around the infamous Nordschleife circuit.
Other visual changes include high-gloss black Polestar diamond cut wheels, carbon fibre door mirror casings and a new color; Bursting Blue Metallic. The interior has been updated with a new seat upholstery, blue contrast stitching and Polestar embroidering.
More than 250 components have been changed compared to the ‘standard’ Volvo model to create a car with all the usability and practicality of the Volvo S60 and V60, but also delivering all-year round sports car performance. Key component changes include the adjustable Öhlins shock absorber system and six-piston Brembo brake calipers with 371 millimeter discs.
The S60 and V60 Polestar retains the award-winning 367-horsepower Drive-E engine, one of the most powerful four-cylinder production engines in the world.