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Subaru Reveals High‑Power EV Prototype as It Builds Its Own Platform

A camouflaged test mule shows lightweight cylindrical batteries, smaller motors, a custom AMD chip ECU, a 510‑hp all‑wheel‑drive setup, with some technologies set to enter production around 2029.

Overview

  • Subaru publicly demonstrated a development prototype at its test facility that uses a dedicated EV architecture and an AWD powertrain rated about 509–510 horsepower and capable of roughly 0–62 mph in under four seconds.
  • The prototype packs a battery made from 4,000 cylindrical cells that Subaru says is about 24–25% lighter than its previous pack and targets roughly 20% higher energy density than the industry average.
  • Key hardware remains sourced from specialists: Aisin supplied the e‑axles used for front and rear drive units and Panasonic Energy provided the battery modules, while Subaru keeps program control over the platform design.
  • Subaru is developing an integrated in‑house electronic control unit using a custom AMD chip to enable over‑the‑air updates and future AI‑enabled EyeSight driver assistance, and it plans to manufacture the ECU itself to cut recurring costs.
  • Company leaders say the prototype is a development tool and not a confirmed production model, and they expect some of the new in‑house technologies to start appearing in production vehicles around 2029 as Subaru aims to scale toward roughly 1.2 million annual sales by the early 2030s.