Potential Future of Subaru’s B-Segment Electric Vehicle
Subaru is exploring the possibility of launching a B-segment electric vehicle (EV) if its compact model, the Uncharted, performs well over the next two years. This potential move comes as the automaker continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup, which currently includes only one EV—the Solterra. Starting next year, the Solterra will be positioned between the compact Uncharted and the more family-friendly midsize Trailseeker, forming a three-EV lineup.
The decision to consider a smaller EV is driven by the need to cater to a wider range of customer expectations. Inoue Masahiko, Subaru’s global head of electric cars, stated that while the idea is under consideration, it depends on how the Uncharted performs in the market. He emphasized the importance of offering a broader selection of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) to meet diverse consumer needs.
Subaru’s European boss, David Dello Stritto, also highlighted the company’s openness to introducing a subcompact electric vehicle. He pointed out that Europe is set to see a wave of new city EVs, including models like the Renault 5 E-Tech, Volkswagen ID.2, Cupra Raval, MG 2, and even a Dacia Sandero EV. Additionally, A-segment EVs such as the Renault Twingo EV, its affordable Dacia counterpart, and a small Honda EV are expected to enter the market soon. This growing competition suggests there is a demand for smaller electric vehicles in Europe.
Dello Stritto noted that Subaru will monitor the performance of the Uncharted before making any decisions about a B-segment EV. “I reckon we need about two years to find out how it’s performing,” he said. “We might have come up with new ideas during that period, so in two years’ time we can talk again.”
Given that all of Subaru’s current EVs are built on shared underpinnings with Toyota, it is likely that the B-segment model would follow a similar approach. Toyota is reportedly working on an electric Yaris, although it remains several years away. Andrea Carlucci, Toyota Europe’s Director of Marketing and Product Development, previously mentioned that while the idea is being considered, it is not currently a topic of discussion.
If and when Toyota does launch an electric Yaris, it could potentially be paired with a Subaru version, creating a twin model. This collaboration highlights the close relationship between the two manufacturers, especially in the EV space.
Subaru’s naming strategy for its European models also reflects its desire to keep branding familiar. For example, the Trailseeker was rebranded as the E-Outback in Europe. If a B-segment EV is introduced, it could potentially carry the Justy or E-Justy nameplate, a name that American buyers may recognize.
Currently, there are no B-segment EVs available in the U.S. after the discontinuation of models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV, the BMW i3, and the China-built Mini J01 due to tariffs. While a new Bolt EV is expected to return, most automakers do not see a strong market for small city EVs. As a result, even if Subaru were to introduce a B-segment EV, it is unlikely to reach the U.S. market.
Combustion-based B-segment cars are already rare in the U.S., with only the Nissan Versa, Mitsubishi Mirage, and Mini Cooper available. The American preference for larger vehicles is unlikely to change unless regulatory changes, such as those seen in Japan’s kei car system, are introduced to incentivize the purchase of smaller vehicles.