Subaru Joins Forces with Toyota to Unveil Its First All‑Electric SUV
In a move that feels like a joint secret‑agent mission, Subaru and Toyota have rolled out the Solterra, the automaker’s inaugural electric vehicle. The launch came on November 11 in bustling Tokyo, and it’s all about meeting the planet‑savvy demand that’s sweeping the globe.
The Big Idea Behind the Solterra
Subaru’s co‑founding buddy, Tomomi Nakamura, talked about the partnership right on stage: “The EV market is still a wild frontier, so we’re deepening our collaboration with Toyota.” After a two‑year joint effort, the Solterra lives. It’s built by Toyota in Japan and could stamp its Subaru badge in America when the sales data say ‘yes’.
Why It Matters
Electric cars are no longer a “nice‑to‑have” but a “must‑have.” Governments worldwide are tightening emissions rules, and manufacturers are scrambling to keep up. For a mid‑sized player like Subaru, the cost of electric tech is a big hurdle. Toyota, on the other hand, is using its hybrid prowess to attract smaller competitors. So, a win‑win partnership emerges.
Key Specs – Quick‑look Cheat Sheet
- Drive Layout: Front‑wheel (FW) ( | 530 km range)
- All‑Wheel Drive (AWD): ( | 460 km range)
- Manufacturer: Toyota (for now, 2025 target to roll out 15 full EVs)
- Investment: USD 13.5 billion in battery production over ten years
- Ownership stakes: Toyota owns 5 % of Subaru and 5 % of Mazda
Looking Ahead
Subaru’s sales are still a fraction of Toyota’s—less than one‑tenth. Yet, this partnership could pivot that ratio if the Solterra clicks with consumers. Toyota’s future lineup will include 13 electrified models by 2025, mixing hybrids and pure BEVs that tap into Subaru’s and Mazda’s shared corporate family.
As both companies weave their electric futures together, one thing’s clear: the road is charged—and exciting.
