To ensure Polestar’s electric vehicles (EVs) perform flawlessly in any climate, the brand conducts rigorous testing in extreme environments, from icy winters to scorching heat. Matt Clowes, Principal Engineer for Climate and Thermal Attributes, leads the team responsible for maintaining optimal comfort inside Polestar vehicles, regardless of outside conditions.
One of their most challenging test locations is Dubai, where summer temperatures reach up to 50°C with high humidity levels. These conditions push the air conditioning (A/C) system to its limits.
READ MORE: Porsche Taycan Proves Electric Excellence in 1,111-km Challenge
Clowes explains the balance required between recirculating air, which cools more efficiently, and introducing fresh air to prevent CO2 buildup. The goal is to deliver comfort efficiently while maintaining safety and air quality.
The team uses a combination of objective measurements and subjective evaluations to perfect the climate system. Over 40 temperature sensors placed throughout the car monitor performance, while subjective scales measure how quickly the system adjusts from discomfort to neutral comfort levels. Benchmarking against competitors helps refine these settings further.
Testing also simulates real-world scenarios, such as returning to a sweltering car parked under direct sunlight, then driving through slow-moving city traffic where fans must work harder to cool the cabin.
The ideal setting—22°C—is not a fixed number but adjusted to feel comfortable based on external conditions. For instance, on a freezing day, the system may deliver slightly higher temperatures to achieve the same level of perceived comfort.
Polestar’s climate testing doesn’t just focus on measurable data; it considers the “feel” of the system. The team tweaks settings to ensure cooling and heating strike the right balance between intensity and subtlety. Once finalized, the findings are reviewed for alignment with the broader company’s expectations.
From the relentless Dubai heat to sub-zero conditions elsewhere, Polestar’s extensive climate testing ensures that even unseen features, like A/C performance, deliver seamless comfort. So, whether you’re commuting or road-tripping, the engineering behind your comfort stems from countless hours of testing in the most extreme conditions worldwide.
READ MORE: Lexus LBX: Celebrating a Year of Success in the European Market
Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox
