Joseph Weaver Subaru Legacy cars have long been a popular choice among car enthusiasts and potential buyers. This midsize sedan boasts an impressive blend of style, practicality, and affordability. But while many people are familiar with the Subaru brand, they may not be aware of where the cars are actually built. In this article, we will take a closer look at the manufacturing process behind Subaru Legacy cars and explore the factories involved.
Where are Subaru Legacy Cars Built?
Subaru Legacy cars are primarily built in two factories: the Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) plant in Lafayette, Indiana and the Yajima plant in Japan. The SIA plant focuses on producing vehicles for the North American market, while the Yajima plant primarily serves the Japanese domestic market. The SIA plant also produces the Subaru Outback and Ascent models.
The History of the Factories
The SIA plant was established in 1987 and is one of Subaru’s largest manufacturing facilities outside of Japan. The plant has undergone several expansions over the years, and its production capacity currently stands at over 400,000 vehicles per year. The Yajima plant, on the other hand, was established in 1958 and has been producing Subaru vehicles for over 60 years.
The Manufacturing Process of Subaru Legacy Cars
The manufacturing process of Subaru Legacy cars involves several stages. At the SIA plant, the process begins with stamping and welding, followed by painting and final assembly. The Yajima plant, on the other hand, uses a slightly different process that involves sub-assembly and final assembly.
The stamping process involves creating large metal panels that will form the framework of the car. These panels are then welded together to create the car’s exterior. After the welding process, the car is painted and undergoes several rounds of quality control checks before it is ready for final assembly.
Final assembly involves installing the car’s engine, transmission, suspension, and other components. The car is also outfitted with a range of features such as air conditioning, sound systems, and safety features.
Interesting Facts About the Factories
- The SIA plant in Lafayette, Indiana is the first and only U.S. automobile production facility to achieve zero-landfill status. This means that all waste generated by the plant is either recycled or reused, and nothing goes to a landfill.
- The Yajima plant in Japan features a test track that is built around the factory to allow for real-world testing of vehicles before they are shipped out.
- The SIA plant has won several awards for its commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, including the 2018 EPA Energy Star Award.
FAQ
Q: Is the SIA plant the only Subaru factory in the United States?
A: Yes, the SIA plant is currently the only factory in the United States that produces Subaru vehicles.
Q: How many Legacy cars are produced each year?
A: The total production output for the Legacy model varies from year to year, but the SIA plant alone has a production capacity of over 400,000 vehicles per year.
Q: What other models are produced at the SIA plant?
A: In addition to the Legacy, the SIA plant produces the Outback and Ascent models.
Conclusion
The manufacturing process of Subaru Legacy cars is a complex and fascinating one that involves several stages and factories. The SIA plant in Indiana and the Yajima plant in Japan work together to produce high-quality, reliable vehicles for customers around the world. As we’ve seen, these factories are doing more than just building cars. They’re also investing in sustainability, environmental protection, and innovation. So the next time you’re driving your Subaru Legacy, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and care that went into its production.
