3 Minutes
The legendary Subaru Brat, a quirky icon of the late 1970s and 80s, is making a bold return to the automotive scene—this time as an all-electric pickup. With help from Toyota, Subaru is poised to enter the rapidly growing electric truck segment, reviving a beloved classic with a high-tech twist.
The Return of the Subaru Brat as an Electric Pickup
Car enthusiasts worldwide remember the original Subaru Brat for its distinctive styling and spirited personality. Famously owned by US President Ronald Reagan, this low-slung utility vehicle captured hearts with its fun-loving, practical design. Now, Subaru plans to leverage its nostalgic charm and reinvent the Brat as a modern EV pickup.
While Subaru’s electric lineup is currently limited to the Solterra SUV, the automaker’s strategic partnership with Toyota is set to expand its presence in the EV market. The revived Brat is anticipated to draw inspiration from Toyota’s EPU electric pickup concept, which debuted at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show. This collaboration promises to deliver advanced technology, robust electric powertrains, and the all-wheel drive capability that Subaru vehicles are celebrated for.
Design, Dimensions & Platform
Subaru is expected to preserve the core spirit of the Brat—compact, agile, and versatile—while integrating modern electric vehicle architecture. The EPU concept’s dimensions stand at 5,070 mm long, 1,910 mm wide, and 1,710 mm high, whereas the classic Brat measured a more compact 4,424 mm in length, 1,620 mm in width, and 1,415 mm in height. To set itself apart, the new Subaru EV pickup could offer a smaller, two-seat configuration reminiscent of the original while packing cutting-edge EV technology.
Performance and Drivetrain Features
Staying true to its roots, the new electric Brat is expected to continue Subaru’s tradition of symmetrical all-wheel drive. It’s likely to feature advanced drive modes to conquer a variety of terrains—such as mud, snow, and sand—making it a strong contender for adventure seekers and practical drivers alike. The original Brat was lauded for its “on-demand” 4WD system and was available in DL, GL, and turbo GL-10 trims, serving as a testament to Subaru’s focus on capability.
Market Positioning and Anticipated Launch
The upcoming Subaru electric pickup will enter a competitive market dominated by larger trucks and SUVs. While Toyota has announced its intentions to bring an electric pickup to Europe by 2026, specific details remain under wraps. For North American buyers, new tariffs may pose challenges for the EV Brat’s entry, but Subaru intends to continue expanding its U.S. electric vehicle lineup, as evidenced by the debut of the 2026 Trailseeker at the New York Auto Show. The Trailseeker, Subaru’s second global EV, offers increased cargo capacity, a more spacious interior, and a range of up to 260 miles—hinting at what we might expect from the new Brat EV.
Comparisons and Outlook
As compact electric pickups gain traction, the new Subaru Brat EV could carve out a niche for drivers seeking something different from the oversized trucks currently dominating sales. With a blend of retro styling, contemporary electric performance, and Toyota’s engineering expertise, the new Brat promises to be both an homage to Subaru’s heritage and a forward-thinking competitor in the electric vehicle space.
Would the return of a Subaru Brat-inspired electric pickup tempt you? Stay tuned for more updates as Subaru and Toyota continue to charge forward into the future of electric mobility.
Source: electrek
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