Subaru will launch its very first battery electric vehicle (BEV) next year as part of its EV development partnership with Toyota.
Called the Solterra, engineers from both companies apparently developed the new car together “while engaging in a friendly rivalry” but customers are being promised they “can feel that it truly is a Subaru”.
The radical looking SUV, which heralds a new design language in part thanks to the angular front end and sculpted sides, is set to “be the cornerstone” of all future Subaru BEVs.
The car is due to go on sale in the middle of 2022 and although no technical details around the 4×4-inspired vehicle have been announced, it could reach the Northern Ireland market with a single and twin-motor drivetrain.
Drawing their power from a 71.4kWh battery, the less expensive of the two set-ups will have 201bhp for a 0-62mph time of 8.4 seconds. Customers needing all-wheel-drive receive a slight power hike (214bhp) meaning the 0-62mph dash is covered off in 7.7 seconds.
The company’s familiar ‘X-Mode’ off-road system ties in with the Solterra’s rugged appearance, while the introduction of ‘Grip Control’ promises to maximise high-speed stability over rough roads and surfaces.
Sitting on the ‘e-Subaru Global Platform’, Subaru says the structure also plays a crucial role in guaranteeing “superior driving dynamics, stability and handling”.
Only a single picture has been released of the Solterra’s cabin, although it is clear most if not all of the car’s functions are operated via the large centrally positioned touchscreen. This is joined by a low-mounted instrument panel, and a digital instrument binnacle that is positioned just ahead of the steering wheel.
Quality appears to have taken a significant leap forward on this latest Subaru vehicle, too, with piano black plastics, metal-effect trim, padded surfaces and a textured dashboard combining to give a premium feel.
More images and details are set to follow next week once the Solterra makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in America.
