Subaru and Toyota Team Up for Three Electric SUVs

Jawad

16 May 2024

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Subaru and Toyota Team Up for Three Electric SUVs

Subaru, widely recognized for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and rugged image, is making a significant push into the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The automaker has announced a partnership with Toyota to jointly develop three new electric SUVs by 2026. This collaboration marks a major shift for Subaru as it seeks to broaden its EV portfolio and meet the rising demand for sustainable transportation solutions.

Strengthening the EV Lineup

Currently, Subaru's only EV is the Solterra, an SUV created in collaboration with Toyota. To diversify its electric offerings, Subaru is leveraging this partnership to mitigate the risks associated with entering the evolving EV market. Subaru's CEO, Atsushi Osaki, acknowledges the challenges faced by smaller automakers in navigating this landscape independently, thus highlighting the strategic advantage of aligning with a larger, more experienced partner like Toyota.

Benefits of the Toyota Partnership

Teaming up with Toyota allows Subaru to share resources and lessen the financial strain of EV development and production. Toyota's extensive expertise in electric and hybrid technologies is expected to play a crucial role in creating more efficient and innovative EVs. One of the new Subaru EVs will be manufactured by Toyota in the United States, enabling it to qualify for federal purchase incentives, a move that underscores Subaru's strategy to increase its market presence in the U.S. EV market.

Future Plans and Innovations

Beyond the three Toyota-developed EVs, Subaru has ambitious plans to release four in-house electric vehicles by 2028. The company is also working on hybrid versions of its popular Crosstrek and Forester models, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to electrification. Addressing the Solterra's shortcomings, such as slow charging speeds and limited range, Subaru is committed to improving these aspects in its future EV models, aiming to meet and exceed consumer expectations.