Decoding the Stars: Exploring the Symbolism Behind the Subaru Logo

The Subaru logo is instantly recognizable with its six stars in a circular formation. However, have you ever wondered what the stars represent? In this article, we will explore the history and symbolism behind the stars on the Subaru logo.

The Evolution of the Subaru Logo

The Subaru logo has undergone several transformations since the company’s inception in 1953. The first logo featured an airplane propeller, which reflected the company’s history of manufacturing aircraft for Japan during World War II. In 1958, Subaru changed its logo to feature a hexagonal shape reminiscent of the star cluster Pleiades, which was also the inspiration behind the company’s name. The Pleiades star cluster, also known as Seven Sisters, is a group of stars in the Taurus constellation that can be seen from Earth with the naked eye.

In 1968, the Subaru logo was revised to include six stars, replacing the previous hexagonal shape. The stars were arranged in a circular pattern, with five smaller stars surrounding a larger central star. The current logo, introduced in 1993, features a sleeker and more modern design of the six stars with a chrome finish.

The Meaning of the Stars

The six stars on the Subaru logo each represent something different. The central star, which is the largest of the six, represents Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru. The five smaller stars symbolize the five divisions of FHI: Aerospace, Industrial Products, Eco Technology, Transportation and the Subaru Automobile division.

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The Pleiades star cluster played an important role in the naming of the company, as well as the design of the logo. The six stars on the logo represent the six brightest stars in the Pleiades constellation as seen from Earth, specifically the stars: Alcyone, Atlas, Electra, Maia, Merope, and Taygeta.

Significance of the Number and Arrangement of the Stars

The number and arrangement of stars on the Subaru logo are also significant. The six stars represent the six companies that merged to form FHI in 1953. Additionally, the stars are arranged in a circle, which is a symbol of unity and harmony. The positioning of the stars also represents the motion of the stars in the Taurus constellation, as seen from Earth.

FAQ

What is the inspiration behind the name Subaru?

The name Subaru comes from the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, which can be seen from Earth with the naked eye.

How many stars are on the Subaru logo?

There are six stars on the Subaru logo.

What do the six stars on the Subaru logo represent?

The central star represents the parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, while the five smaller stars represent the five divisions of FHI: Aerospace, Industrial Products, Eco Technology, Transportation and the Subaru Automobile division.

Why are the stars arranged in a circle on the Subaru logo?

The circle represents unity and harmony, while also representing the motion of the stars in the Taurus constellation as seen from Earth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the six stars on the Subaru logo each have a specific meaning and are steeped in symbolism. From the company’s naming to the arrangement of the stars, each aspect of the logo tells a story about Subaru’s history and values. As one of the most recognizable car logos, the Subaru logo is a testament to the power of effective branding and the importance of symbolism in marketing.

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Billy Covington

With a passion for all things automotive, Billy is our go-to expert on Subaru performance upgrades and modifications. He's been featured in several car magazines and blogs, and his extensive knowledge and expertise make him a valuable member of our team. When he's not working on cars, he enjoys playing guitar and writing music.

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