Subaru develops its own 380 kW electric AWD platform
An experimental Subaru EV uses two motors, a lighter Panasonic battery concept and new electronics. Production technologies may arrive around 2029.
Subaru has tested an electric prototype producing about 517 metric horsepower and accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in under four seconds. The front motor delivers 150 kW and the rear 230 kW, for a total of 380 kW. Roughly 61% of installed motor power is at the rear; actual torque distribution varies with conditions and AWD software.
According to Automotive News and other automotive outlets, testing took place at a Subaru proving ground in Japan. The car wears a modified older Outback body with a longer wheelbase, concealing an entirely new EV platform. It is an engineering test mule, not a preview of a production model; neither its appearance nor its specifications are guaranteed for sale.
The goal is a proprietary Subaru EV architecture and independently tuned all-wheel-drive handling. Current Solterra, Trailseeker, Uncharted and Getaway EVs were developed with Toyota. Going it alone does not mean ending partnerships: Subaru is developing the new electric motors with Toyota-group supplier Aisin, while seeking greater efficiency and lower drivetrain weight.
Subaru and Panasonic Energy are developing a battery using roughly 4,000 cylindrical cells. The proposed pack could weigh 25% less than earlier Subaru packs and offer energy density about 20% above the industry average. Engineers also target a platform weight reduction of around 100 kg versus the brand’s current EV solutions. Capacity, charging performance and driving range remain undisclosed.
Safety development includes front structural members designed to channel crash forces. The front motor mounting is designed to allow controlled rotation in a collision, absorbing some energy and reducing loads on the cabin and battery. These concepts remain under evaluation and are not confirmed production specifications.
Subaru is also developing centralized vehicle electronics with AMD computing components, over-the-air updates and closer integration of vehicle control systems. A separate official agreement with Infineon covers the AURIX TC4x microcontroller for an integrated unit combining EyeSight functions and vehicle-motion control. This architecture is intended for future gasoline and hybrid models as well as EVs.
The first technologies could reach production vehicles around 2029. Subaru has not announced the first model’s name, launch date, battery capacity or range. The Outback-bodied test vehicle illustrates a lighter platform, Subaru-specific AWD tuning and integrated electronics, not final production specifications.