Subaru debuts first global EV with Solterra SUV reveal
Subaru has unveiled its Solterra SUV; its first battery electric vehicle to be launched globally and a “cornerstone” of its future BEVs.
Due on sale mid-2022, it’s the sibling of the Toyota bZ4X revealed two weeks ago and sits on a platform co-developed by the two carmakers under their business and capital alliance founded in September 2019.
As well as being conceived to “exceed the various customer expectations for BEVs”, the Solterra has also been designed so that “it truly is a Subaru” in terms of off-road capabilities.
As with the Toyota, the line-up will include a front-wheel drive model with a 204hp motor and an all-wheel drive variant.
The latter features separate 109hp motors front and rear and also gets the brand’s X-Mode AWD control system. Already seen on Subaru’s other SUV, it’s been augmented for the Solterra with a new Grip Control function, designed to stabilise the vehicle even on rough roads.
Both FWD and AWD models will be powered by a 71.4kWh battery that can be charged at 6.6kW AC or up to 150kW via DC rapid charging – likely to give an 80% charge in around 30 minutes as with the bZ4X. It’s not known whether the 11kW three-phase charger arriving later for the Toyota will be introduced for the Subaru, or the solar panel roof that can supplement range.
Cruising range is expected to be around 530km (329 miles) for the front-wheel drive version, and 460km (289 miles) for the four-wheel drive model.
The BEV-dedicated Subaru Global Platform has been engineered to enable a driving experience with superior driving dynamics, combining high stability and handling. The battery packs are located under the floor, realising a low centre of gravity and high body strength and rigidity.
The brand outlined: “By filling it with new values that a BEV can offer and the value of “enjoyment and peace of mind” that Subaru have cultivated over many years, Solterra has been built as an authentic SUV in an environmentally friendly package that can be used with peace of mind like the existing Subaru SUV models.”
Both FWD and AWD models will come with 18-inch wheels, along with the option of 20 inchers for the AWD. Further specification details are yet to be announced.
The launch of the Solterra will start by the middle of 2022 in the markets including Japan, the United States, Canada, Europe and China.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
