Subaru BEV production begins in Japan with Trailseeker electric SUV

On February 4, Subaru announced the start of Subaru BEV production at its Gunma Yajima Plant, confirming that manufacturing operations for battery electric vehicles began in February 2026. This development represents the company’s first in-house production of a globally positioned BEV model and a significant shift in its long-term electrification strategy.

Subaru BEV production line commissioning

The start of Subaru BEV production follows the scheduled completion of major production line upgrades finalized in January 2026. These modifications began in August 2025 and were designed to enable a flexible mixed-model manufacturing setup supporting battery electric vehicles alongside gasoline and hybrid models.

Mixed-model manufacturing approach

The newly configured line allows Subaru to adapt output volumes across powertrain types based on market demand. This approach supports operational efficiency while enabling a gradual transition toward electrification without disrupting existing internal combustion and hybrid vehicle production.

Trailseeker electric SUV enters production

The all-new Subaru Trailseeker electric SUV is the first BEV to be produced on this mixed-model line. Trailseeker becomes the second model in Subaru’s global BEV lineup and has been jointly developed as part of their ongoing technology collaboration. The Trailseeker electric SUV is scheduled for market introduction in Japan around spring, reinforcing Subaru’s intent to expand its electric vehicle presence while leveraging shared BEV platforms and development resources.

Technical specifications disclosed

According to details published on the company website, the Subaru Trailseeker electric SUV features dimensions of 4,845 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, and 1,675 mm in height, supported by a wheelbase of 2,850 mm. These proportions position the vehicle firmly within the midsize electric SUV segment.

Powertrain and battery configuration

Front-wheel-drive variants are equipped with a 167 kW electric motor mounted at the front axle. All-wheel-drive versions add a second 167 kW motor at the rear, delivering enhanced traction and performance. Both configurations are powered by a 74.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. For the front-wheel-drive model, the disclosed driving range exceeds 700 km, highlighting Subaru’s focus on competitive efficiency and long-distance usability as Subaru BEV production moves from pilot development into full-scale manufacturing.