Subaru unveils in-house EV platform and software strategy

Subaru has revealed details of its first proprietary electric vehicle (EV) platform, marking a strategic shift toward independence from its long-term partner, Toyota. The company demonstrated a prototype using an Outback-derived body that features a new architecture, including dual motors providing approximately 510 horsepower and a battery developed with Panasonic Energy that is 25 percent lighter than previous versions.

The new platform is expected to reach production vehicles by 2029. It will incorporate an integrated electronic control unit (ECU) developed in collaboration with AMD to support software-defined vehicles (SDVs). These future models will support over-the-air (OTA) updates for driver assistance, automated driving, and vehicle performance.

To remain competitive, Subaru aims to reduce vehicle development cycles by 40 percent through the use of digital simulations and parallel development processes. While Subaru continues to collaborate with Toyota on certain models, the company intends to maintain control over its core engineering to preserve its signature driving character and safety standards.