Polestar 2 fastback adds more vroom with $1,595, press of a buy button

Polestar is dialing up the performance of the Polestar 2 fastback. All it takes is the press of the Buy button.

The Swedish electric automaker is offering a C$1,595 software upgrade that boosts the Polestar 2's power and shaves 4.42 seconds off the car's zero-to-100 km/h time.

The performance package is available to customers in the United States and Canada via an over-the-air download.

The instant upgrade adds 68 horsepower and 15 pound-feet of torque to the dual-motor powertrain, for a total output of 476 hp and 502 pound-feet of torque.

Behind the wheel, the performance boost delivers increased responsiveness and a sportier experience overall, Polestar said.

The additional power and torque are primarily felt at speeds between 70 and 130 km/h, resulting in even, rapid mid-range acceleration. With the upgrade, accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h takes 2.2 seconds – half a second quicker than a standard Polestar 2.

"This upgrade highlights how connected technologies can transform the relationship a car company has with its customers," Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath said in a statement.

Automakers are increasingly relying on over-the-air software updates to offer on-demand features and create post-sale revenue streams.

General Motors projects it will generate up to US$25 billion in annual revenue by 2030 from software and subscription services.

Mercedes-Benz is promoting an annual US$1,200 Acceleration Increase subscription that unlocks horsepower and acceleration on the EQ line of electric vehicles.

"Fine tuning of the electric motors increases the maximum motor output of your Mercedes-EQ by 20 to 24 per cent," Mercedes notes on its website. "The torque is also increased, enabling your vehicle to accelerate noticeably faster and more powerfully."

The upgrade also quickens the 0-to-100 km/h time by "around 0.8 to 0.9 seconds." Mercedes said.