The Solterra SUV Will Be Subaru's First Electric Model

author: Manish Kharinta   

Subaru recently released this teaser image of the upcoming fully-electric Solterra SUV.

There have been many new reports about Subaru's first all-electric vehicle. It's been three years since the Japanese automaker filed a trademark for the name "Evoltis" and ever since the industry has been waiting for the arrival of Subaru's first ever EV.

Now Subaru of America has released the first teaser images of its new electric vehicle, which will be called the Solterra. The automaker confirmed that it will introduce the Solterra next year in the U.S., Canada, Europe and Japan. 

The name Solterra is the combination of two Latin words used to describe "Sun" (solis) and "Earth" (terra). Unfortunately, the teaser images hide most of the design and styling details of the upcoming Solterra EV.

As we reported back in February, Subaru's first electric SUV will actually be a  badge-engineered product and based on a vehicle platform co-developed with Toyota. 

In March, Subaru's domestic rival Toyota Motor Corp kicked off its own electrification strategy when the company's luxury subsidiary Lexus introduced the LF-Z BEV, but until now, there were no official updates on Subaru's electrification plans.

The Solterra EV will be based on the e-Subaru Global EV Platform, which was developed using Toyota's e-TNGA architecture. The flexible vehicle platform is capable of accommodating single or dual powertrains offering all-wheel-drive, which Subaru is known for.

The Electric SUV will benefit from Subaru's all-wheel-drive expertise combined with Toyota's electrification tech. Sabaru also confirmed that jointly developed Solterra EV will come with state-of-the-art passive safety features which Toyota is known for.

Initially the Solterra will only be offered as an electric model, but don't be surprised if Toyota and Subaru decide to introduce additional hybrid models based on the e-TNGA platform, as the vehicle architecture is designed to accommodate internal combustion engines as well. 

The Solterra's overall silhouette bears a striking resemblance to the Toyota bZ46, which was recently showcased at the annual Shanghai Auto Show. 

The proportions of the Solterra SUV have been designed to emulate a tough and capable off-roader. The EV features a prominent hood and what looks like substantial overhangs. The Solterra's proportions seem sufficient for accommodating combustion motors and hint at Solterra's hybrid-capable foundations. 

Based on the teaser images, the Subaru Solterra will have a sporty stance and ample ground clearance of a typical SUV. But Subaru claims that it will be Solterra's driving dynamics that will set it apart from other offerings in the crowded SUV and crossover segment.

Even though Solterra is Subaru's first EV, the Japanese automaker's partner Toyota has already announced its plans to introduce 10 electrified models by 2025.

Manish Kharinta

Manish Kharinta is a automotive writer based in the Los Angeles area. He has worked for automotive industry websites TheSmokingClutch.com, CarDekho.com and CarBikeindia.com. His experience ranges from covering auto shows, to car reviews and breaking automotive news. Manish aims to bring forth his unique perspective on automotive design and technological innovations in the automotive industry.