Info Malang Raya Its All About World News
Potential Future of Subaru’s Electric Vehicle Lineup
Subaru is considering the development of a B-segment electric vehicle (EV) if its compact model, the Uncharted, performs well over the next two years. This potential move comes as the automaker looks to expand its EV offerings and meet diverse customer demands. However, it is unlikely that this new model will be available in the U.S., where consumers tend to prefer larger vehicles, whether they are electric or not.
Currently, Subaru only offers one electric vehicle: the Solterra. But starting next year, the Solterra will be part of a three-EV lineup, with the Uncharted positioned as a more compact option and the Trailseeker serving as a family-friendly midsize model. If these upcoming models succeed, Subaru may explore even smaller EVs, potentially entering the B-segment market.
In an interview, Inoue Masahiko, the global head of electric cars at Subaru, mentioned that the company is open to developing more and smaller EVs. He emphasized the need for a broader range of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to cater to different customer preferences. David Dello Stritto, Subaru’s European boss, also expressed interest in launching a subcompact electric vehicle, especially given the upcoming influx of city EVs in Europe.
Several new models are set to enter the European market, including the Renault 5 E-Tech, Volkswagen ID.2, Cupra Raval, MG 2, and even the Dacia Sandero EV. Additionally, A-segment EVs like the Renault Twingo EV, its affordable Dacia counterpart, and a small Honda EV are also expected. With so many new entries, competition in the segment is expected to be fierce, indicating a strong demand for compact electric vehicles in Europe.
Dello Stritto noted that Subaru will monitor the performance of the Uncharted before making any decisions about smaller EVs. He suggested that the company might have new ideas after two years, allowing for further discussion on future models.
Given that all of Subaru’s current EVs are built on shared platforms with Toyota, it is reasonable to assume that the B-segment model would follow a similar approach. Toyota is reportedly working on an electric Yaris, though it is still several years away from production. When asked about the electric Yaris, Andrea Carlucci, Toyota Europe’s Director of Marketing and Product Development, stated that while it is an idea, it is not currently being discussed.
The naming of future models could reflect Subaru’s strategy to keep its brand familiar in specific markets. For instance, the Trailseeker was renamed the E-Outback in Europe, suggesting that a B-segment EV might carry a name like Justy or E-Justy—names that American buyers would recognize.
Currently, there are no B-segment EVs available in the U.S. after the discontinuation of the Chevy Bolt EV and EUV, as well as the BMW i3. Tariffs also make it economically unfeasible for Mini to bring the China-built J01 into the market. While a new Bolt EV is expected, most automakers do not see a strong market for small city EVs. Therefore, even if Subaru were to launch a B-segment EV, it is unlikely to reach the U.S. market.
Even combustion-based B-segment cars are rare in the U.S., with options like the Nissan Versa, Mitsubishi Mirage, and Mini Cooper available. The American preference for larger vehicles is unlikely to change unless policies similar to Japan’s kei car regulations are introduced, offering tax incentives for small car owners.
