Subaru is still new to EVs, but that doesn’t stop it from revealing more ambitious projects. electrek reports the automaker has introduced two concept EVs at the Tokyo Auto Salon, including its first all-electric race car. The STI E-RA Concept hints at Subaru’s upcoming track vehicle with 1,073 hp total power from its four Yamaha engines, extensive downforce and all-wheel drive coupled with a “unique” torque vectoring system that maximizes grip and the stability.
While the 60kWh battery is relatively small, Subaru is confident the E-RA can thrive on the track. He hopes to set a Nürburgring lap time of 6 minutes 40 seconds sometime in 2023. That’s not as fast as VW’s ID.R (6 minutes 5 seconds) but is comfortably ahead of road cars. like Tesla’s Model S Plaid (7 minutes 35 seconds). The company plans to test the E-RA on Japanese racing circuits in late 2022.
Subaru
The brand also unveiled a Solterra STI Concept (in the middle) which, as the name implies, is a sportier version of the upcoming crossover. Subaru didn’t discuss changes under the body, but the updated Solterra has a roof spoiler, skirt spoilers and other customizations to signal its performance ambitions.
As much as the E-RA represents Subaru’s motorsport plans, it also serves as a statement of intent. Like the VW racer, this shows that the company is serious about EVs and can produce high-performance cars in addition to regular trucks. The challenge is to translate lessons learned from concepts like this into common vehicles. Subaru lags behind for EVs compared to traditional companies like VW, Mercedes and GM, and it may need to act quickly if it wants to counter its rivals’ electrification efforts.
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