Subaru Solterra Marks Automaker’s First All-Electric Vehicle
Expected to arrive in 2022, Subaru gave a peek of the Solterra EV. Okay, you have our attention.
Subaru has finally entered the electric vehicle market in earnest. The automaker just announced that their first fully-electric SUV is here: The Subaru Solterra. In keeping with the art if the tease; Subaru revealed just enough of the Solterra EV to capture our interest. But they are light on all the details. Thankfully we won’t have to wait too long, as the Solterra is expected to hit showrooms next year.
Subaru worked with Toyota to develop the all-electric e-Subaru Global Platform. Based on Toyota’s prolific e-TNGA platform, the chassis affords Subaru flexibility, and the possibility of employing two engines.
In the first image we see a familiar Subaru profile, albeit a little smaller. On the plus side, Subaru is clearly defining the Solterra as a tough, versatile, and off-road capable. This is not another EV crossover. To that end there are new sharp LED lights, a purposeful stance, good ground clearance, and a noticeably beefy hood.
And if there was any doubt, Subaru included a picture of the Solterra badge on a muddy ride outside.
Then there is the name “Solterra.” Subaru says the name Solterra was created using the Latin words for “Sun” and “Earth” to represent Subaru’s commitment to producing excellent vehicles in an environmentally responsible package. While the Solterra gives it up to Mother Nature; it is also a clever nod to drivers who expect a Subaru to thrash around in some of her greatest hits: mud, snow, ice.
Engineers sought to develop an SUV that retained Subaru’s all-wheel drive capability, driving dynamics, and safety. Combining that with Toyota’s expansive EV technology is using the best of both worlds.
What we don’t know are any of the particulars; including price, specs, design, and interior tech and components. But so far, we are optimistic. Subaru has a strong legion of fans. A true Subaru electric SUV could indeed open up, and shake up, the EV market.
The 2023 Subaru Solterra is expected to be released in 2022. More details to follow!
Photos: Subaru