Polestar opens new dealership in Austin, Texas

Polestar, the Swedish electric vehicle manufacturer, has recently opened a new retail space in Austin, Texas, marking its third location in the state. This expansion comes amid significant changes within the company, including the resignation of CEO Thomas Ingenlath and the appointment of Michael Lohscheller, a seasoned industry veteran. The move reflects Polestar's strategy to establish itself independently after separating from Volvo earlier this year, with backing from parent company Geely. Texas has seen a surge in electric vehicle registrations, with over 200,000 battery-electric vehicles now on the roads, making it the third highest state for EV adoption in the U.S. Austin has emerged as a focal point for this growth, despite Texas's reputation as a major oil producer. The state's diverse energy landscape, which includes wind, solar, and water resources, supports the increasing interest in electric vehicles. Anders Gustafsson, Head of Polestar North America, emphasizes the importance of expanding charging infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of EVs. He believes that increasing the presence of electric vehicles will incentivize companies to invest in charging capabilities. Gustafsson also challenges the narrative that the EV market is slowing down, arguing that competition among automakers is driving innovation and investment in electric mobility. As Polestar continues to carve out its identity separate from Volvo, it aims to leverage its Scandinavian design and performance-oriented approach to attract consumers. The company recognizes the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about the future of electric vehicles in Texas and beyond.