Advanced solid-state batteries have long been regarded as the holy grail for electric vehicles and Subaru has joined fellow Japanese brands Toyota and Nissan by working to implement these advanced new packs. However, rather than using them in any of its EVs, Subaru is instead utilizing solid-state batteries in robots which build engines and transmissions.

Read: Subaru Is Having Second Thoughts On EVs

The batteries in question come from Japanese electronics firm Maxell Ltd and have been primarily used as backup batteries in industrial equipment, designed to protect against computer memory loss. These solid state cells, like those set to be used by future EVs, have a ceramic-like electrolyte rather than a liquid one. This makes them more energy-dense and allow them to support fast charging than traditional lithium-ion cells.

Why Robots Come First

Maxell’s batteries are less than 1 kWh in capacity, and therefore far too small to use in a vehicle. However, they have been adapted for use with Subaru’s factory robots which usually need battery changes every one or two years. These new batteries can last for up to 10 years.

According to Auto News, Subaru has already introduced the batteries into nine robots at its Oizumi engine and transmission plant north of Tokyo.

“By installing all-solid-state batteries in the industrial robots used at our factory, Subaru aims to reduce both industrial waste and maintenance work for industrial robots by utilizing the long battery life,” the company said in a statement.

Subaru’s EV Balancing Act

A few short months ago, Subaru acknowledged that it was “re-evaluating” its electrification strategy, becoming just the latest in a slew of car manufacturers that have become increasingly concerned with the slowing growth of EV sales in certain markets. However, it recently revealed its second EV for North America, named the Uncharted.

This is the brand’s take on the new electric Toyota C-HR but has a slightly more rugged design. The flagship model has a pair of electric motors that combine to deliver 338 hp and enable it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5 seconds.

According to the latest American Customer Satisfaction Index Automobile Study, Americans are becoming less satisfied with their vehicles. The overall satisfaction index dropped one point this year to 79.

Mainstream brands held steady at 79, while luxury brands slipped a point as they fell to 80. The biggest drop came from smaller brands, which are grouped into an “others” category, as they plunged 9% to 74.

More: New Car Owners Overwhelmed By Modern Technology

Jumping into specifics, Subaru was deemed the most satisfying brand with a score of 85. It was followed by Mazda and Toyota in second with 82, while Buick, GMC, and Honda tied for third at 81.

Stellantis had a dismal showing as Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram all fell. In fact, all four brands found themselves at the bottom of the list with Chrysler and Ram tied for dead last at 69.

2025 American Customer Satisfaction Index For Mainstream Brands

ACSI

Interestingly, satisfaction with most vehicle related components and experiences was largely unchanged. However, there were drops related to technology and safety. The latest study also introduced two new categories – expected future resale or trade-in value and driving distance on a full charge or full tank of gas – and consumers weren’t exactly thrilled with either, especially for EVs.

On the luxury side of the equation, Lexus was top dog with a score of 87. They were followed by Mercedes (82) as well as Cadillac and Tesla, which tied for third at 81. BMW finished last with a score of 75 and they dropped four points from 2024.

2025 American Customer Satisfaction Index For Luxury Brands

ACSI

Luxury buyers were less satisfied with a number of things including driving performance, exteriors, interiors, and technology. There were also drops in safety and dependability.

Aside from the mainstream versus luxury divide, people were less satisfied with hybrids and EVs. Hybrids fell two points to 80, while electric vehicles dropped four points to fall to 73. This stands in contrast to gas-powered models, which held steady with a satisfaction index of 80.

The American Customer Satisfaction Index noted that with 22% of borrowers opting for 84-month loans, there will likely be an increased emphasis on reliability and dependability as consumers are holding onto their vehicles for longer. Ram spotted this shift awhile ago and they recently launched a new 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

ACSI

Subaru may be putting more energy into electric crossovers lately, but fans of its performance cars could have something to look forward to as well. Alongside the new Uncharted, the updated Solterra, and the Trailseeker duo, Subaru is reportedly considering an all-electric version of the BRZ. If it moves ahead, the project might even bring the nameplate back to Europe after years of absence.

More: Subaru Finally Admits It’s Boring And Wants STI Back But Not How You Remember It

The original BRZ was introduced in late 2011, with the second-generation model following in 2020. Both featured non-electrified boxer engines, with Europe’s strict emission regulations eventually leading to the model’s discontinuation from the region. In fact, the current BRZ has only reached certain European markets in limited numbers, leaving Subaru without a sports car in its local lineup.

Electric BRZ Is on the Table

That could change in the future, as Subaru is actively considering a zero-emission BRZ that could satisfy enthusiasts. David Dello Stritto, General Manager of Subaru Europe told Autocar that the model could return with a fully electric powertrain.

“Our options are open,” he said, though he also made it clear that Subaru’s short-term priority lies in electric crossovers like the Uncharted. Only after that might it turn its attention to sportier projects.

Earlier this year, Stritto suggested that electrification might be the path forward for the Subaru STI division due to emission regulations: “With an EV, you’ve got the power and performance, and you’ve got an all-wheel-drive system. We’re working on more sporty models, and electrification allows us to do this.”

Inoue Masahiko, global EV manager at Subaru, admitted that an electric BRZ was under consideration as part of their partnership with Toyota: “We did consider electrifying the BRZ and GT86, but the win-win relationship is more important, and for the moment we can’t get the kind of benefits for both sides.”

A Concept Points the Way

The best indication yet for an electric Subaru sports car was the Sport Mobility Concept from 2023 with a two-door coupe bodystyle, futuristic styling, and a high-riding stance. The concept had a similar footprint with the BRZ but featured an electric powertrain that moved all four wheels.

More: Is This Subaru’s Next WRX Or Something Even More Extreme?

Subaru didn’t reveal the specifications of the Sport Mobility Concept. However, the dual electric motor setups of its current EVs generate as much as 377 hp (280 kW / 380 PS), which sounds more than enough for a sexy coupe.

What About A Hybrid?

Don’t count on it. Masahiko ruled out the possibility of fitting the current BRZ with a hybrid system, citing packaging constraints. Starting from scratch with a dedicated electric sports car, he said, would be simpler and more effective.

As for bringing small batches of BRZ units to Europe, Subaru has done it before with limited editions like the Final Edition (300 units for Germany) and the Touge Edition (60 units for Italy). But Masahiko made clear that importing more combustion-powered BRZs doesn’t make long-term sense under Europe’s regulatory landscape.

It remains to be seen whether the next sporty Subaru will still be twinned with a Toyota. Earlier reports from Japan suggested that a GR86 successor is being developed entirely in-house by Toyota, retaining a combustion engine at the front and a rear-wheel-drive layout.

Subaru is stepping up its electric vehicle game in Europe, confirming plans to launch three new battery-electric crossovers by 2026. Developed in partnership with Toyota, the trio brings familiar hardware with Subaru’s own quirky styling choices, which have often sparked debate. The new models include the Uncharted, the facelifted Solterra, and the E-Outback, which is Europe’s version of the Trailseeker.

More: Subaru Built A 338hp AWD EV That Launches Like A Hot Hatch On Caffeine

These additions will effectively triple Subaru’s EV lineup in the region, which until now has consisted solely of the Solterra. All three vehicles are built on the e-Subaru Global Platform, Subaru’s take on Toyota’s e-TNGA electric architecture.

The Subaru Uncharted

Leading the charge is the Uncharted, Subaru’s spin on the Toyota C-HR+. The crossover stands out with a Subaru-specific front end that borrows elements from the updated Solterra, including its headlight design and sculpted bumper. Rugged alloy wheels round out the exterior changes. Inside, the Uncharted gets a squared steering wheel and slightly different interior trims, while sharing features like the 14-inch infotainment display and dual wireless chargers with its Toyota twin.

Buyers can choose between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, both of which offer respectable performance. Power peaks at 338 hp (252 kW / 344 PS), and the entry-level variant uses a 57.7 kWh battery rated for 276 miles (444 km) of range. A larger 77 kWh option boosts range to 363 miles (584 km) for FWD models and 292 miles (470 km) with AWD.

EU-spec Subaru Uncharted

EU-spec Subaru Solterra

The Solterra Returns, Sharper and Stronger

Moving on to a more familiar member of Subaru’s EV lineup, the Solterra is back with fresh styling, more tech, and upgraded underpinnings. The dual electric motors generate 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS), representing a healthy increase of 123 hp (92 kW) compared to the original version that debuted in 2022. Furthermore, a larger 73.1 kWh battery pack delivers over 310 miles (500 km) of range between charges.

More: Subaru Trailseeker EV Is Faster Than A WRX STI But No One Knows If It’s A Wagon Or SUV

The styling updates are focused on the front end, with slimmer LEDs and a cleaner design for the bumper. The EU-spec Solterra was shown with glossy black fenders, so it is not clear if higher trim levels will feature the body-colored finish seen in the North American model. The EV also benefits from a new 14-inch infotainment display and improved ADAS.

Meet the E-Outback: Subaru’s Biggest EV Yet

Last but not least, the Subaru E-Outback is the European twin of the Subaru Trailseeker and the Toyota bZ Woodland. It is longer and more spacious than the Solterra, with a boot that is large enough for four suitcases. Subaru shared a single photo of the Trailseeker, so we guess that the E-Outback will look identical, minus the amber indicators.

Performance takes another step up here. The E-Outback is powered by a dual-motor setup producing 377 hp (280 kW / 380 PS), paired with a 74.7 kWh battery that delivers 279 miles (447 km) of range. Designed with adventure in mind, it includes Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD, X-Mode terrain management, and 210 mm (8.3 inches) of ground clearance. It also matches the Solterra’s towing capacity at 1,500 kg (3,307 pounds).

Rollout Timeline

The facelifted Subaru Solterra will be the first to reach European dealers by the end of 2025. The Uncharted and E-Outback will follow in early 2026. Subaru plans to announce pricing details closer to each model’s launch.

It’s rare for Subaru to introduce an entirely new model lineup in the U.S., but that’s exactly what’s happening with the arrival of the Uncharted. As expected, it’s essentially Subaru’s take on the electric Toyota C-HR, with a design and feature set that leans more rugged than the Solterra, all in a more compact package.

Read: Subaru Trailseeker EV Is Faster Than A WRX STI But No One Knows If It’s A Wagon Or SUV

The Uncharted rides on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform and is powered by a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery across all variants. Subaru has confirmed three versions for the American market: the Premium FWD, Sport, and GT. The base model is notable for being the first front-wheel drive vehicle Subaru has offered in years. In contrast, both the Sport and GT feature the company’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with X-Mode.

A Front-Drive Subaru

The front-wheel drive model will pack 221 hp and, according to Subaru, should be able to travel over 300 miles (492 km) on a charge. Interestingly, the carmaker says it will only be sold in “limited quantities,” so it’s unlikely to be a member of the Uncharted family for long. Considering the EV’s rugged appeal, it’s likely that most buyers will prefer the all-wheel drive Sport and GT models anyway.

The AWD Models

The AWD Sport and GT models step things up with 338 horsepower and an estimated range of up to 290 miles (467 km). They can also reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in a remarkable 5.0 seconds, making them quicker than the previous WRX STI and the current WRX TR, which take 5.6 seconds to hit the same mark.

According to the brand, the Uncharted offers “impressive straight-line stability, handling, and grip on loose surfaces such as gravel, dirt, or snow.” Fittingly, it looks a little more trail-ready than the C-HR, sporting more rugged front and rear bumpers, as well as new headlights and taillights. Customers will be able to order the Uncharted with either 18- or 20-inch wheels. There are also low-profile roof rails.

Charging and Tech Details

All Uncharted models come standard with a NACS charging port. They support peak DC charging speeds of 150 kW, while an 11 kW onboard charger has been added for convenient AC home charging. Subaru notes that the EV also includes a battery preconditioning system and that the battery can be charged from 10-80 percent in 30 minutes.

A Familiar Cabin

The Uncharted’s interior is mostly the same as what you’ll find in the C-HR. That means there’s a large 14-inch infotainment screen, a digital gauge cluster, and a horrendously ugly steering wheel. Key standard features of the Sport include a heated steering wheel, water-repellent upholstery, and a panoramic view monitor. The GT adds a panoramic moonroof, ventilated front seats, a smart rearview mirror, and a Harman Kardon audio system.

Subaru has not announced pricing details for the Uncharted, but it’s reasonable to assume that the front-wheel drive model will start somewhere in the low-to-mid $30,000s.

After a slow start, Subaru is going all-in on electric vehicles. The effort kicked off earlier this year with the unveiling of the facelifted Solterra and the all-new Trailseeker.

The journey continues on July 17 with the debut of the 2026 Uncharted. The company isn’t saying much at this point, but revealed the model is a compact crossover that promises to be “ready for your next adventure.”

More: Toyota’s C-HR Returns To America But It’s Nothing Like You Remember

Besides revealing the name, the automaker released a dusty teaser image. It shows a Solterra-esque rear end with a split upper spoiler and a lower mid-mounted spoiler. We can also see slender taillights, an angular rear window, and “SUBARU” lettering on the liftgate.

Additional details are hard to make out, but we can see a rounded roof that is painted in a contrasting black color. We also get a glimpse of an angular shoulder line and what appears to be a bulge near the third-quarter glass.

Little else is known about the model , but previous reports have suggested the crossover is another tie-up with Toyota. This makes a lot of sense as the Uncharted appears to have a lot in common with the Toyota C-HR.

If Subaru’s new EV is indeed a rebadged C-HR, we can expect a 77 kWh battery pack as well as a standard dual-motor all-wheel drive system developing 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS). This should enable the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in around five seconds and have a range of roughly 290 miles (467 km).

In terms of size, the Uncharted should measure around 178 inches (4,520 mm) long with a wheelbase that spans 108.3 inches (2,750 mm). That would make the model 6.6 inches (168 mm) shorter than the Solterra, with 3.9 inches (99 mm) less between the wheels.

2026 Toyota C-HR

Subaru might be gearing up to bring back a familiar nameplate, and for fans of quirky utility vehicles, this one’s worth paying attention to. We’re not talking about the possible return of the STI, but something even more unexpected: a modern take on the Brat or Brumby, depending on which side of the planet you’re on.

This small pickup truck was a fixture in North America from 1978 to 1987, remembered as much for its utility as its unmistakably odd charm. If it’s coming back, though, expect some big changes.

Toyota May Be the Key to Subaru’s Pickup Revival

A new report out of Australia claims that Subaru is actively exploring a revival of the Brat, and perhaps unsurprisingly, it could be brought to life with the help of Toyota. The world’s largest automaker is reportedly developing a small truck of its own, and Subaru could piggyback off that effort by sharing the same underpinnings. The two brands have a long history of collaboration, from the BRZ and GR86 twins to recent efforts like the bZ Woodlands and Trailseeker EVs.

Whether this joint project leads to an all-electric pickup remains unclear. While Toyota originally floated the idea of a fully electric compact truck, current market conditions suggest a combustion-powered or hybrid option is also on the table. Either way, affordability appears to be the common goal.

More: Forget The Slate, Toyota Wants To Make A Cheap Small Truck For America

It’s a mystery what the new-age Brat could look like. Heck, we don’t even have a good idea of how Toyota’s pickup will look like. Toyota did preview an electric concept called the EPU back in 2023, but whether that design translates into a production model remains to be seen.

Obviously, it’s all very speculative at this point. And if this project is real, it might end up channeling more four-door Subaru Baja than two-door Brat when all is said and done.

Regardless of how Subaru goes about styling the new model, it seems inevitable that it will be much larger than the original. That’s a shame, but beggars can’t be choosers, I suppose. Odds are, it’ll end up somewhere in the same size class as the Ford Maverick or Hyundai Santa Cruz, compact by today’s standards, but still a far cry from the tiny trucklet it once was.

Now, it’s important to note that Subaru has not confirmed a revival of the Brat, and CarsGuide has only received word of the project “through the grapevine.” As is so often the case, we recommend taking this report with a grain of salt, at least until Subaru makes some kind of announcement, or perhaps follows the lead of Toyota and drops a mysterious teaser image of the new model.

Read: Subaru Is Having Second Thoughts On EVs

If the Brat does make a comeback, expect it to feature all-wheel drive, as you’d imagine from Subaru. The Australian website speculates that it could be electric (though as we mentioned, we’re not so sure about that), powered by dual motors putting out a combined 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque.

The report also claims Subaru could reveal plans for its new truck as early as this year’s Tokyo Motor Show in November.

Illustrations Carscoops.com / Josh Byrnes

It hasn’t been an easy ride for Toyota and Subaru’s first major foray into the EV market. The Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra stand out for their unconventional styling, but unfortunately, not for reasons that win over buyers. Now, Toyota has been hit with a lawsuit in the US that claims the vehicles have 12-volt batteries prone to premature failure, and that the carmaker knew about the problem before it began selling the vehicles.

Filed in California, the class action lawsuit targets 2023 to 2025 model year Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra models. According to the complaint, the 12-volt batteries in these EVs are prone to draining quickly and dying altogether. Although the vehicles are still under warranty and dealers have reportedly been replacing the batteries, the lawsuit alleges that replacements are just as unreliable.

Read: Toyota Kills bZ4X To Welcome New bZ

As with over EVs, the 12-volt battery in question isn’t the one powering the car’s electric motors. It handles secondary systems like the windows, seats, HVAC fans, radio, lights, and wipers. It’s also believed to activate a relay that connects the main battery pack to the electric drivetrain. In other words, it may be small, but when it fails, the car is effectively dead in the water.

Just a single plaintiff has been named in the lawsuit: John Wade. He bought a 2023Toyota bZ4X in March 2023 and says he began experiencing issues within weeks. According to the filing, a series of warning lights lit up the dashboard before the vehicle completely shut down, requiring roadside assistance just to get moving again. Less than 2,000 miles later, the 12-volt battery failed a second time. This time, even a jumpstart couldn’t revive it.

Wade claims he was forced to tow his EV to a nearby Toyota dealership, which replaced the 12-volt battery. In December 2024, this replacement battery died. While attempting to diagnose the problem on his own, Wade paid $4,800 for a Level 2 home charger as he believed the issues may have stemmed from “not using a sufficient EV battery charger.”

Toyota now has until July 3 to officially respond to the lawsuit. For both Toyota and Subaru, the case raises questions about how well early EV issues are being addressed, particularly when they involve something as basic as the 12-volt battery system.