Subaru go electric at Geneva

Subaru have chosen the Geneva International Motor Show to show off their new environmentally friendly concept models.

A revolutionary ‘Boxer’-hybrid concept vehicle, a pure-electric city car and a stunning Hybrid Tourer will all make their European debut at the prestigious motor show next week.

Subaru will showcase the models as a demonstration of its efforts to integrate enjoyable and reliable driving with environmentally friendly motoring solutions.

Hybrid Tourer Concept:
The revolutionary Subaru Hybrid Tourer features the world’s first ‘Boxer’-hybrid and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. The striking concept combines classic Subaru design with a spacious cabin, gullwing-style doors and an eye-catching, sculpted body.

The large, swept-back panoramic windscreen, height-adjustable dashboard and absence of B-pillars all give a heightened sense of light and space to the interior and provides occupants with a less obstructed view of the outside world.

The innovative hybrid system also uses Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed, direct-injection, turbocharged petrol ‘Boxer’ engine. Allied to two electric motors, the Hybrid Tourer powertrain cleverly switches from the electric motor (which is used at start-up and low speed) to the direct-injection petrol engine for more power and performance at higher speeds. Subaru’s in-house designed Lineartronic automatic transmission is also featured; further boosting fuel efficiency and driving performance.

Stella EV:
Continuing the ‘green’ theme, Subaru will be showcasing its plug-in STELLA EV Concept.  The lithium-ion battery-powered, 90km-per-charge, 40kW, electric vehicle can be recharged up to 80 per cent of its capacity in about 15 minutes when using its quick charging system. Under normal circumstances the city car is fully rechargeable in five hours when using an AC240V power outlet.

‘Boxer’ Diesel Technology:
Subaru fans will also be able to take in a number of ‘Boxer’-diesel model displays at the Japanese manufacturers stand at the Geneva Motor Show.  Highlighting Subaru’s unique Horizontally-Opposed engine technologies, the Impreza, Forester, Legacy and Outback models are all currently available with the unique-to-Subaru 2.0-litre diesel engine configuration, which offers both improved fuel economy and a low centre of gravity. 

More details about the Subaru electric range is expected after the launch at the Geneva International Motor Show on 2nd March.

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Glenn Nutsey

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25/02/2010