Motortrend: Subaru Hybrid Due in 2013, Won’t Use Toyota Tech

[linas1]

Subaru first teased a hybrid vehicle almost six years ago. Now it appears the Japanese automaker is finally preparing to add one to its fleet. From what we’ve gleaned, a Subaru-built hybrid could very well become a reality within two years.
Our sources at Subaru confirm we will definitely be seeing a hybrid from the automaker by calendar year 2013 at very latest. We’ve learned, however, that the vehicle will not use a hybrid drive system adapted from that used by corporate parent Toyota. Instead, Subaru’s system will be unique, and most importantly, compatible with both boxer engines and all-wheel-drive systems.
Details on the system — or even which vehicles will be offered with it — are still scarce, but if the final product resembles what the automaker previewed with its 2005 B5-TPH concept, expect Subaru’s hybrid system to sandwich an electric motor between the engine and transmission. Seeing as how the automaker has been working with electronics giant NEC to develop lithium-ion battery packs since 2002, such a battery could very well make it into the production model. Subaru has also been tinkering with lithium-ion capacitor technologies for some time.
Subaru feels the fuel economy offered by its present models can weather any moderate increases in gas prices, but according to Tom Doll, COO of Subaru of America, the addition of a hybrid model will only strengthen its position as an eco-conscious automaker. In the meantime, expect the automaker to ramp up production at its Indiana assembly plant to keep pace with demand for its conventional Legacy and Outback offerings.


See old concept pictures: We Hear: Subaru Hybrid Due in 2013, Won?t Use Toyota Tech -

[subiesailor]

Timed exactly to the oil exec's prediction of $5+ dollar a gallon gas in the US. Lets hope Subaru sticks to the plan.

[linas1]

I hope they are not too late on the hybrid bandwagon and can catch up with Toyota, Honda, and Ford hybrid technologies.

[subiesailor]

One advantage of being slow to the game - you already know what your competitors have. Sort of like playing cards and knowing what cards everyone has at the table.

Historically speaking Subaru has been a engineering company so its a fair guess they are looking at whats being done now and looking at technology thats going to play a role in the future cars and designing systems with that in mind. The only big challenge for Subaru would be mass production of a very different platform or drive system given they are a small player in the Auto biz.