Polestar Australia sees opportunity after US ban on its vehicles

The United States government denied authorization for Polestar, a Chinese‑owned electric‑car brand, under the Connected Vehicle Rule citing national‑security concerns. The decision prevents Polestar sales in the US but, according to Australian general manager Scott Maynard, could benefit markets outside the United States.

Maynard noted that about 94 % of Polestar’s sales already come from abroad, so the loss of the US market is relatively small. He said the ban may shorten development times and simplify production for regions such as Australia and the broader APAC area. Polestar’s global headquarters remain in Sweden, and the company confirmed that its plan to consolidate Polestar 3 SUV production at Volvo Cars’ plant in South Carolina for markets outside China is unchanged.

Overall, the brand expects the US restriction to allow a sharper focus on European, Australian and other growth markets without affecting local Australian operations.