Next-Gen Battery Tech May Bring 900-Mile Range to Subaru Models

August 17th, 2023 by

2023 Subaru Solterra Electric VehicleSubaru has joined the ranks of EV providers with Solterra but has much bigger plans for the near future. New incoming Subaru President and CEO Atsushi Osaki announced they will launch three new all-electric crossovers by the end of 2026, quadrupling the number of Subaru EVs presently offered and also significantly increasing the overall number of models you will find at Ewing Subaru of Plano.

2023 Subaru Solterra EV Rear ViewNew Dedicated EV Assembly Lines

As part of the plan, Subaru is building a dedicated EV assembly line at its Oizumi plant, which presently builds engines and transmissions. The new assembly line is expected to have a capacity of 200,000 models a year by 2027. An additional EV assembly line at its nearby Yajima plant will also have a capacity of 200,000 for a total EV capacity of 400,000 by 2028.

2023 Solterra InteriorSeveral Stages of Improved Battery Technology

The batteries will come from our Toyota neighbors, which own 20% of Subaru and will be the source of the new battery technology. It starts with a new next-generation lithium Ion battery design that Toyota has stated will double the capacity found in the current Solterra for a total of 621 miles and will recharge from 10 to 80% capacity in under 20 minutes. Toyota’s Lexus brand will introduce this technology for the 2026 model year, with other vehicles, including Subaru models to follow.

Next up will be a bipolar lithium iron phosphate battery that arrives around 2026 or 2027. Bipolar batteries boost power density by combining anode and cathode terminals into the same current collector rather than the separate collectors they use now. This is expected to boost range by 20 percent over today’s Soterra battery and increase the next generation lithium-ion battery capacity by 10%.

2023 EV Battery for Subaru Solterra

Solid State Batteries Likely to be the Big Breakthrough

The next big leap is expected to be that of solid-state batteries that achieve the battery trifecta of greater capacity, lower weight, and quicker charge time. Toyota predicts the first stage of its solid-state batteries to hit the market in 2028. They are expected to increase the range to about 20% over the next generation of lithium-ion batteries. That would increase the present Soterra up to 745 miles. 

But wait, there’s more. Toyota is already working on a second, more advanced solid-state battery that would deliver 50 percent more range than the next-generation lithium-ion battery, and that is where you get the 900-mile figure. This battery is projected for production around the end of the decade. 

None of this is to imply that you should wait for several years for your first EV. The good torque, quiet operation, and maintenance-free characteristics of EVs like the Solterra, not to mention the environmental benefits, are worth enjoying now. If you haven’t already, you should come to Ewing Subaru of Plano and check out the Solterra models in our inventory for yourself. But when today’s EV owners eventually trade their cars for a new model from Subaru, they may find game-changing batteries inside. 

At Ewing Subaru of Plano, we value our customers. You can find new Subaru inventory, including the Solterra and an unmatched collection of used car, truck, van, SUV and crossover inventory at our dealership near you. Are you interested in leasing or financing your Solterra? The Finance Department at Ewing Subaru of Plano can help you find the right lease offer or finance solution that fits your budget. We cultivate relationships with many banks and other financial organizations to provide you with great options in purchasing your new vehicle. In addition to the comprehensive factory warranty that comes with your new Subaru, we offer extended warranty and protection programs to safeguard your investment. Get the best deals and specials available to you on the Subaru Solterra. Our knowledgeable sales staff wants to help you find the perfect fit in a new Subaru or used car. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Ewing Subaru of Plano family and help you find your new car or used vehicle. Your support and customer service doesn’t stop after you sign your deal. The expert Service Department at Ewing Subaru of Plano is always ready to help with any repairs or maintenance you might need to keep your vehicle running perfectly. Our Express Service Lane will get you back on the road quickly when you need basic maintenance like an oil change or tire rotation. Would you like to make your new car all your own with personalized upgrades? Our well-stocked Parts Department has all of the accessories you need for the best customization of your vehicle to make it uniquely yours and fit perfectly in your lifestyle. We can’t wait to help you on your car buying and vehicle ownership journey. Visit us today at Ewing Subaru of Plano!