If you’re behind the wheel of a certain high-tech European electric vehicle, there’s news you may want to stay across.
The stylish fastback has drawn plenty of interest among Australians, especially for its forward-thinking features.
But a recent development could put a key part of its driving system under the spotlight.
What’s the issue?
According to Polestar 2 recall notice, a software glitch could affect the car’s braking system under specific circumstances. A total of 23 vehicles manufactured in 2024 are affected.
The culprit? The ‘one-pedal drive’ function—a popular feature in many electric vehicles that allows drivers to accelerate and decelerate using just the accelerator pedal.
When this function is activated, the car automatically slows down as you lift your foot, often making traditional braking unnecessary in everyday driving.
However, the manufacturer has discovered that, in certain driving conditions, this feature may lead to a loss of braking performance.
In plain terms: if you’re relying on one-pedal drive, your car might not slow down as quickly as expected.
This could increase the risk of an accident, potentially causing injury or worse to you, your passengers or other road users.
Is my car safe to drive?
The manufacturer assures owners that the vehicle is safe to drive—as long as the one-pedal drive function is deactivated.
To do this, simply tap the car icon on the centre display, select ‘Drive’, and toggle off the one-pedal drive option.
It’s a quick fix that will keep you safer until the official repair is completed.
What should I do next?
If you own one of these electric vehicles, don’t ignore this recall. Here’s what you need to do:
- Deactivate one-pedal drive: Until your car is repaired, ensure this feature is turned off.
- Contact customer support: Reach out to the manufacturer’s support team or your nearest authorised dealer to schedule a free software update. The fix is straightforward and won’t cost a cent.
- Stay informed: For any questions or concerns, you can call directly on (02) 9423 0876.
Why are recalls so common with modern cars?
You might be wondering why recalls have become more frequent, particularly among newer vehicles.
The answer is simple: today’s cars are more like computers on wheels, packed with complex software and interconnected systems.
While this brings handy features—like one-pedal driving, advanced safety tech and seamless connectivity—it also means there’s more that can go wrong.
The good news? Most issues can be corrected quickly with a software update, often without even lifting the bonnet.
A quick word on EV safety
Electric vehicles are generally very safe, and recalls like this are a sign that manufacturers are addressing potential concerns proactively.
If you’re new to electric vehicles, it’s worth remembering that features like regenerative braking (which powers one-pedal drive) are designed to make driving easier and more efficient.
But, as with any new technology, it’s important to stay up to date with advice and software updates from your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Have you been affected?
While vehicle recalls can understandably cause concern, it’s important to stay informed and take prompt action when safety notices like this arise.
Polestar 2 has outlined steps for owners to address the issue, and drivers are encouraged to follow the guidance provided to ensure their vehicles remain safe on the road.
Have you experienced any issues with the one-pedal drive function in your Polestar 2? Do you regularly use this feature, or prefer to drive without it? How do you feel about the company’s response to the recall? Let us know your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
Also read: Don’t risk your loved ones’ health: Pet item recalled
