- Polestar appoints Michael Lohschelle as new CEO
- Michael Lohscheller’s resume includes Opel, Vinfast and Nikola
- Volvo splits from Polestar
Polestar has appointed Michael Lohscheller as its new CEO, replacing Thomas Ingenlathwho has led the EV brand since its split from Volvo, after Volvo stepped down.
Change takes place effective October 1, 2024Lohscheller previously served as CEO of Opel, Vinfast and Nikola, leaving the latter company in September 2023. At the time of publication, his LinkedIn profile listed him as head of the International Motor Vehicle Manufacturers trade group.
2025 Polestar 3 production at Volvo plant near Charleston, South Carolina – August 2024
“Polestar has established itself as one of the most desirable and innovative brands in the electric vehicle space,” Lohscheller said in a statement. “I look forward to working with the talented team to build on this strong foundation and accelerate our growth.”
polar star started as a racing team closely linked to Volvo, it evolved as a performance sub-brand for the automaker before becoming a standalone brand in 2017 under the direction of Volvo parent company Geely. Sales began in 2019 with the limited-edition Polestar 1 plug-in hybrid coupe, followed by the all-electric Polestar 2 in 2020. The Polestar 2 has been the brand’s sole model since launch, but is soon to be joined by Pole Star 3 electric SUVs, including US production begins in South Carolina earlier this month.
Polestar 5 test ride
The Polestar 4, a more coupe-like SUV, is expected to arrive in the United States next year, with production for that market handled by a Renault factory in South Korea to avoid the political complications of its main manufacturing site in China. The Polestar 5 fastback is also expected to begin production next year, followed by the Polestar 6 roadster in 2026. The brand also prototype battery testing It claims to be able to do one Charge 10-80% in just 10 minutes.
However, earlier this year Volvo announced that it would stop sponsoring Polestarwhile retaining about 18% of Polestar, giving Geely greater control over the brand. Polestar missed its reduced 2023 delivery target and its share price has plummeted since going public in 2022 through a merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC).
