World premiere of the Solterra, Subaru's first global BEV

SUBARU SOLTERRA

World Premiere of the First Global BEV Solterra

Subaru has globally unveiled the Solterra, the company's first SUV to be deployed globally as a BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle), via an online presentation.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Developed to be "Undeniably a Subaru" Even as a BEV

The Solterra, making its world premiere as Subaru's first global BEV, was developed with the aim of not only being practical but also feeling "undeniably like a Subaru."

World Premiere of the First Global BEV Solterra | SUBARU

The platform, developed jointly with Toyota as a dedicated BEV platform called the "e-Subaru Global Platform," leverages the knowledge gained from the "Subaru Global Platform." Subaru claims that this platform enables a driving experience with the high dynamic quality characteristic of Subaru, responding linearly to the driver's steering inputs.

Furthermore, as a structure unique to BEVs, a high-capacity battery is mounted in the lower part of the body. By utilizing this battery as part of the chassis, the vehicle achieves a low center of gravity and high body strength and rigidity.

Two types of drivetrains are available: FWD and AWD. The AWD system, in particular, features a new system that drives the front and rear wheels independently with separate motors, a capability unique to BEVs, and boasts four-wheel grip that takes advantage of the high adaptability and flexible front-rear power distribution made possible by electric motors.

In addition, like traditional Subaru models, it incorporates X-MODE for enhanced confidence on rough roads, along with the addition of Grip Control, which allows for stable driving at a constant speed. Driving performance has also been enhanced.

The body dimensions are 4,690mm in length, 1,860mm in width, and 1,650mm in height. The exterior features a seamless hexagonal grille, and the horizontal axis originating from this grille, along with the fenders that bulge outward from the inside, create a powerful SUV presence.

The interior also offers an open space, thanks to a low-profile instrument panel design and a top-mounted meter display positioned above the instrument panel, visible over the steering wheel, which is a first for Subaru.

Pricing is yet to be determined, with sales scheduled to begin in Japan, the United States, Canada, Europe, and China around mid-2022.

Spec

SUBARU SOLTERRA