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Subaru’s 1st Ever Crossover EV, The Solterra Breaks Cover
A big achievement for Subaru as they have entered the EV world with the launch of its latest crossover SUV the Solterra.
Co-developed with Toyota, the Solterra shares literally everything with its bZ4X including its e-TNGA dedicated electric architecture which both companies built.
The Solterra’s overall dimensions are the same as the bZ4X’s at 4,690mm (184.6 in.) long, 1,860mm (73.2 in.) x 1,650mm (65 in.) tall, with a 2,850mm (112.2 in.), giving it a similar footprint to the Forester (182″ L x 72 W “x68” H). In looks, the Solterra just added a little aggressiveness than its Toyota cousin.
The Solterra puts the power to the ground through a pair of electric motors, one for each axle. Each motor generates 107 horsepower (80 kilowatts) for a combined output of 215 hp (160 kW), and with Subaru’s penchant for all-wheel-drive vehicles, that’s the only configuration available on the Solterra. It utilizes the company’s AWD X-Mode system for use on a variety of surfaces, which is further enhanced by the new Grip Control feature that provides extra stability at speed.
Subaru hasn’t divulged full details just yet (that’ll come next week), but one important point mentioned is a new safety structure. If there’s a collision, the structure transfers the load to multiple body skeletons in order to more evenly absorb the crash. Not only does this protect the occupants, but also the 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
The total range is around 285 miles on Japan’s WLTC standard. Official EPA ratings have not been announced. A set of 18-inch wheels are standard and 20-inches are optional with the AWD version.
