Subaru Explores Electric Future for BRZ Sports Car, Signaling Broader EV Market Ambitions
Key Insights
Subaru is actively considering an all-electric version of its BRZ sports car, potentially reintroducing it to European markets.
The feasibility of an electric BRZ is under joint evaluation with partner Toyota, seeking a mutually beneficial development strategy.
Subaru's decision hinges on the market performance of its upcoming electric vehicle models, including the new Uncharted and updated Solterra.
Company executives indicate an electric powertrain is technically more viable for the BRZ's packaging than a hybrid alternative.
Subaru Corporation is exploring the development of an all-electric variant of its BRZ sports car, a move that could see the model return to European markets after its 2020 discontinuation. This strategic consideration underscores the automaker's deepening commitment to electrification and its intent to secure a niche within the burgeoning electric sports car segment. The potential revival of the BRZ as an EV is being closely evaluated in collaboration with its long-standing partner, Toyota Motor Corporation.
David Dello Stritto, Subaru's European head, confirmed to Autocar that "Our options are open" regarding the BRZ's electric future. This sentiment was echoed by Inoue Masahiko, Subaru's global EV product boss, who stated that an electric version of the sports car is "under consideration" and has been extensively reviewed with Toyota. Masahiko highlighted the importance of a "win-win relationship" for both companies, indicating that current discussions are focused on achieving mutual benefits from such a joint development. While the companies have explored the electrification of both the BRZ and Toyota's GR86, a shared pathway that satisfies both parties remains a key challenge.
The decision to proceed with an electric BRZ is intrinsically linked to the market reception of Subaru's forthcoming electric vehicle lineup. The company is preparing to launch several new EVs in Europe, including the Uncharted, the E-Outback (known as Trailseeker in the U.S.), and an updated Solterra SUV. Stritto emphasized that the success of these foundational EV models, particularly the Uncharted, will be a critical determinant for investing in an electric sports car. "We feel very positively about Subaru enthusiasts, but we need to see how Uncharted does first," Stritto noted, signaling a cautious yet optimistic approach to market expansion.
From a technical standpoint, Masahiko indicated that an all-electric powertrain would be "easier" to integrate into the BRZ's chassis than a hybrid system, citing packaging complexities. This preference for a full EV solution suggests Subaru's engineering teams are aligning with the industry trend towards dedicated electric platforms for performance vehicles. Should an electric BRZ come to fruition, it would enter a competitive landscape, potentially challenging established and emerging electric performance models such as the Hyundai IONIQ 6 N and the Tesla Model 3 Performance. For the U.S. market, Subaru has no plans to discontinue the current gasoline-powered BRZ, suggesting any electric variant would initially complement, rather than replace, the existing model. This move reflects Subaru's broader strategy to diversify its electric offerings while maintaining its core market segments.