Toyota, Subaru join forces to develop electric vehicle platform

Toyota and Subaru have announced an agreement that will see the Japanese automotive giants jointly develop a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) platform. 

The platform will be used for medium and large passenger vehicles, starting with an all-electric medium SUV which will be sold under both marques.

According to a press release published this week, the partnership will utilise Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system as well as Toyota’s electrification resources. 

The new venture follows Toyota and Subaru’s jointly developed 86 and BRZ sportscars, as well as the Subaru Crosstek Hybrid which is sold in the United States and uses Toyota Prius-derived plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology. 

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It remains unclear when the new platform will materialise, however, the brands have expressed an urgency to join the EV segment. 

“The automotive industry is in the midst of a once-in-a-century period of profound transformation,” the press release reads.

“Both Subaru and Toyota are required to conduct technological development with a sense of speed across a broader-than-ever spectrum of initiatives.”

Following the launch of the new midsize SUV, a larger high-rider and large sedans may also be in the offing. 

“As a first step in this direction, while accelerating production by bringing together technologies that represent each company’s strengths and cooperating where possible, the two companies will jointly develop a (dedicated-EV) platform.”

“The platform will be developed in a way that will make it broadly applicable to multiple vehicle types, including (midsize) and (large) sedans and SUVs.”

Is the new partnership a good move for Toyota and Subaru? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below.