Subaru’s All-New Electric SUV Preview - 5 Things Will Make It Distinctly Subaru
Subaru and Toyota are collaborating on a new all-electric SUV. It will feature Toyota's battery technology, and recent reports from Car and Driver say it could use a solid-state battery pack and potentially be an EV game-changer. Solid-state batteries charge quicker and offer more range in the same size pack as traditional lithium-ion batteries.
Subaru has said the new EV SUV would share Toyota technology, but it will be "distinctly Subaru." The automaker has not given details yet, but it means it will incorporate Subaru's core values. Those values include safety, fun-to-drive, all-weather capable, off-pavement ready, and a low center-of-gravity.
Photo credit: motor.es
Subaru is always going to build additional safety into every model, including its first-ever all-electric SUV. Even though it rides on Toyota's e-TNGA modular platform, the 2022 Subaru EV will have top safety scores from the IIHS.
The new EV will be fun-to-drive and will have a low center-of-gravity. Like the new 2022 BRZ sports coupe also developed with Toyota, the new EV SUV will be about Forester's size and maneuverable in city commuting. Subaru will likely use a Continuously Variable Automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters for more driver engagement.
The new Subaru EV will have all-wheel-drive as standard on one trim level, and a front-drive model will also be available for urban commuters. Subaru's primary market will be in California, where there are mountains and warm weather. Some customers will want the off-pavement trim for off-road pursuits, and some will prefer front-drive for city commuting.
The new 2022 Subaru all-electric will also have additional features beyond all-wheel-drive. The new vehicle will come with the ability to get away from civilization and feature extra ground clearance. It should come with dual-function X-Mode with deep snow and mud settings, having a low center of gravity for improved performance while navigating steep trails, and a rugged exterior appearance like the rendering above from Design AG.
Unlike the 2022 Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 twins, the Subaru all-electric will be distinctly Subaru and incorporate its core values. You will also distinguish the model and know it's a Subaru with its rugged "go-anywhere" appearance. The first-ever Subaru all-electric EV should arrive in the summer of 2022. Stay tuned.
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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Photo credit: Subaru, Design AG, motor.es