Subaru, a carmaker known for its rugged, outdoor-friendly vehicles, has been slow to adopt hybrid and electric technology. While the typical Subaru driver is often associated with eco-consciousness, the brand’s cars have historically lagged behind on fuel efficiency. However, that is set to change, with the announcement that the company will introduce several models in its EV lineup in America by 2025, accounting for around 75% of Subaru’s sales globally.
During Subaru’s latest earnings call, Tomoaki Emori, the company’s chief general manager of global planning, emphasized the need for “strong hybrids and electric vehicles” to meet changing consumer demands.
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While Subaru’s technical development is closely tied to Toyota, which holds a 20% stake in the company, Toyota has been slow to embrace EV technology. However, with Toyota now making a hard pivot toward EVs and expanding its hybrid engine offerings, Subaru is expected to follow suit.
One upcoming model to watch is the next-generation Subaru Forester, which is set for an overhaul in 2024, potentially for the 2025 model year. Rumors suggest that the new Forester could share a hybrid powertrain with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which would provide a substantial power upgrade.
There is also speculation that a pricey PHEV option with 40-plus miles of EV range, using the RAV4 Prime’s unit, could be offered. Furthermore, an all-electric Forester is not out of the question.
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While Subaru has been something of a paradox in the automotive world, the company’s commitment to hybrid and electric vehicles is a positive step forward. With Toyota’s help, Subaru is likely to deliver an EV lineup that appeals to both its eco-conscious base and a broader range of consumers.
