Subaru's Current and Upcoming Electric Models
Subaru currently sells one fully electric vehicle in the United States: the Solterra, which launched in 2023. It is a mid-size SUV with an all-wheel-drive option and a starting price around $50,000 before incentives. The Solterra uses a 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery and can travel roughly 228 miles on a single charge, depending on driving conditions and which drivetrain you choose.
Subaru has announced plans to expand its electric lineup. The company stated it intends to offer multiple electric models by the mid-2020s, though specific model names, release dates, and pricing have not yet been confirmed. Subaru has also committed to making all its vehicles electrified — either fully electric or hybrid — by 2035, which means you can expect more options in the coming years.
The Solterra is built on Subaru's dedicated electric platform, which the company developed in partnership with Toyota. This platform is designed specifically for battery-powered vehicles rather than adapted from a gas-engine design, which affects how the vehicle handles, where the battery sits, and how much interior space is available.
Key Takeaways
- The Solterra is Subaru's only fully electric vehicle currently sold in the United States, with a range of roughly 228 miles per charge and a starting price near $50,000.
- Subaru plans to introduce additional electric models by the mid-2020s, though specific details about those vehicles are not yet public.
- The Solterra uses a dedicated electric platform developed with Toyota, not a gas-engine design converted to electric.
- Federal tax credits and state incentives may reduce the actual cost of a Solterra, depending on where you live and your income level.
Solterra Specifications and Range
The Solterra comes in two main configurations: front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The front-wheel-drive version has a single motor and produces 160 kilowatts of power. The all-wheel-drive version has two motors — one on each axle — and produces 194 kilowatts of power. Both use the same 71.4-kilowatt-hour battery pack.
Real-world range depends on several factors: outside temperature, highway versus city driving, how aggressively you accelerate, and terrain. Subaru rates the front-wheel-drive Solterra at 228 miles of range and the all-wheel-drive version at 228 miles as well, though the all-wheel-drive model uses slightly more energy because it powers two motors. Cold weather can reduce range by 20 to 40 percent, which is typical for all electric vehicles.
The Solterra charges on a standard 120-volt household outlet, but that method is slow — roughly 3 miles of range per hour. A 240-volt home charger adds about 25 miles of range per hour. Public fast chargers (DC fast charging) can add 200 miles in 30 minutes under ideal conditions, though actual speed varies by charger type and your vehicle's battery temperature.
How Subaru's Electric Strategy Differs From Its Gas Vehicles
Subaru built its reputation on all-wheel drive and boxer engines — horizontally opposed engines that sit low in the vehicle. The Solterra keeps the all-wheel-drive option but replaces the boxer engine with electric motors. Because electric motors are smaller and lighter than gas engines, Subaru was able to place the battery pack under the floor of the vehicle, which lowers the center of gravity and improves handling.
This design choice means the Solterra handles differently from Subaru's gas-powered vehicles. The low center of gravity makes it feel more stable in turns, and the when ready torque from electric motors gives it quicker acceleration off the line than a comparable gas SUV. However, you lose the distinctive engine sound that Subaru owners often associate with the brand.
Subaru has also emphasized durability and reliability in the Solterra's design. The battery is warrantied for 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. The vehicle uses a cooling system to manage battery temperature during charging and driving, which is designed to extend battery life over time.
Pricing and Available Incentives
The Solterra's base price starts around $50,000 for the front-wheel-drive model and rises to approximately $54,000 for the all-wheel-drive version. These prices do not include destination charges, taxes, or dealer fees, which vary by location. Subaru periodically updates pricing, so check with a local dealer for current figures.
A federal tax credit of up to $7,500 may be available if you purchase a new Solterra, though this credit has income limits and price caps that change year to year. You must also meet vehicle assembly requirements — the Solterra is assembled in Japan, which affects whether it qualifies. Many states offer additional rebates or tax credits for electric vehicle purchases, ranging from $500 to $5,000 depending on where you live.
Some utilities offer rebates for installing a home charging station, which can offset part of the $500 to $2,000 cost of equipment and installation. Check with your local utility company to see what programs are available in your area.
Charging Infrastructure and Practical Ownership
Before purchasing any electric vehicle, consider where you will charge it most often. If you have a garage or driveway, installing a 240-volt home charger is the most convenient option and lets you start each day with a full battery. If you rent or live in an apartment, you will depend more heavily on public charging networks, which requires more planning for longer trips.
The Solterra is compatible with most public charging networks in the United States, including Tesla's Supercharger network (with an adapter), Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint. Charging networks vary in cost, speed, and availability by region. Some charge per kilowatt-hour, others charge per minute, and some require a membership subscription.
For daily driving under 100 miles, most owners find that home charging covers their needs. For road trips, you will need to plan charging stops, which typically add 20 to 40 minutes to your journey depending on how much charge you need. Subaru's navigation system can show nearby chargers and their availability, though you should verify this information before relying on it for a long trip.
Comparing the Solterra to Other Electric SUVs
The Solterra competes with vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6 in the mid-size electric SUV category. Each vehicle has different strengths: the Tesla Model Y has the largest charging network, the Volkswagen ID.4 has a lower starting price, and the Hyundai and Kia models offer faster charging speeds.
The Solterra's main advantages are Subaru's reputation for reliability, the all-wheel-drive standard on higher trims, and the low center of gravity from the dedicated electric platform. Its main disadvantages compared to some competitors are a smaller battery option (the Solterra only comes with one battery size) and fewer public charging locations in rural areas where Subaru has historically had less market presence.
If you are deciding between the Solterra and another electric SUV, test drive both vehicles and compare their charging networks in your area. The best vehicle for you depends on your daily driving distance, access to home charging, and how often you take long trips.
Subaru's Long-Term Electric Vehicle Plans
Subaru has committed to electrifying its entire lineup by 2035, meaning every vehicle it sells will be either fully electric or hybrid. The company plans to introduce additional electric models before 2030, though it has not yet announced which models will be electrified first or what their specifications will be.
Subaru's parent company, Subaru Corporation, is investing in battery technology and charging infrastructure in Japan and other markets. These investments may eventually lead to lower battery costs and faster charging speeds in future Subaru electric vehicles, though timelines are uncertain.
If you are interested in Subaru's future electric models, you can check the company's official website or contact a local Subaru dealer for updates. Dealers often have information about upcoming models before they are announced to the general public.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Solterra may have access to for the federal tax credit?
The Solterra may may have access to for up to $7,500 in federal tax credit, but it depends on your income, the vehicle's final assembly location, and the price cap in effect when you purchase. The Solterra is assembled in Japan, which meets the assembly requirement. Check the IRS website or speak with a dealer about your specific situation, as rules change annually.
How long does it take to charge a Solterra at home?
On a 240-volt home charger, a fully depleted Solterra battery takes roughly 8 to 10 hours to charge completely. On a standard 120-volt outlet, it takes 30 to 40 hours. Most owners charge overnight and start each day with a full battery, so the actual charging time is not a daily concern.
Can I tow with a Solterra?
Subaru has not released towing capacity information for the Solterra. Contact a Subaru dealer directly to confirm whether the vehicle supports towing and what the weight limits are, as this may affect your decision if you plan to tow a trailer.
What happens to the battery after 10 years?
The Solterra's battery is warrantied for 10 years or 100,000 miles. After the warranty expires, the battery typically retains 70 to 80 percent of its original capacity. Replacement batteries are expensive — usually $5,000 to $15,000 — but most owners keep their vehicles longer than 10 years before facing this cost.
Are there other Subaru electric vehicles available outside the United States?
Yes. Subaru sells the Solterra in Japan, Europe, and other markets. In some regions, Subaru also offers the BRZ e-POWER, a sports car with a hybrid electric system. These vehicles may not be sold in the United States, so availability depends on your location.