Joseph Weaver Subaru is a Japanese automobile manufacturer that has been producing top-quality cars for over 60 years. The brand is known for its reliability, durability, and excellent safety features, making it a popular choice for car enthusiasts around the world. But do you know where Subaru originated from and the story behind the company? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fascinating history of Subaru and what sets it apart from other car manufacturers.
The Founding of Subaru
Subaru was founded in 1953 in Japan under the name Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. The company’s original focus was not on producing cars, but on developing aircraft technology and manufacturing aircraft for the Japanese military. It was not until 1954 that the company produced its first car, the Subaru 1500. The company later changed its name to Subaru Corporation in 2017.
The History of Manufacturing
Subaru’s manufacturing process has always been centered on the use of the boxer engine, a unique horizontally opposed engine design that has become synonymous with the brand. The boxer engine creates a lower center of gravity for the car, which helps to improve handling and stability. This design has been used in most of Subaru’s models since the 1960s, including the Subaru Impreza, Legacy, and Forester.
Subaru has also been known for its commitment to all-wheel-drive technology, which provides better traction and stability on slippery roads. The brand was one of the first to develop and commercialize this technology in the 1970s, making it a leader in the automotive industry.
Models of Cars Produced by Subaru
Over the years, Subaru has produced a wide range of car models, including sedans, SUVs, crossovers, and even sportscars. Some of the brand’s most iconic models include the Subaru Impreza, a popular compact car known for its impressive handling and performance, and the Subaru Forester, a mid-size SUV with excellent gas mileage and top-notch safety features.
Subaru has also made a name for itself in the sports car industry, producing the Subaru BRZ in collaboration with Toyota and the world-renowned Subaru WRX STI. These models have gained a loyal following among motorsport enthusiasts around the world.
Significant Milestones
Subaru has achieved several significant milestones throughout the years, including being the first car manufacturer to introduce a mass-produced all-wheel-drive passenger car, the Subaru Leone, in 1972. The brand also developed the world’s first automatic transmission 4WD system with its Multi-Mode Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD) technology.
In recent years, Subaru has continued to innovate and improve the quality of its cars. In 2019, the brand introduced its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, a suite of safety features that helped to prevent accidents and protect passengers on the road.
What Sets Subaru Apart
What sets Subaru apart from other car manufacturers is its focus on safety, durability, and reliability. The brand has consistently ranked highly in safety ratings, with many of its models receiving top marks from organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Subaru also offers impressive durability, with its cars regularly lasting well over 200,000 miles. The boxer engine design and all-wheel-drive technology have both contributed to the brand’s reputation for longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Subaru an American brand?
A: No, Subaru is a Japanese brand that was founded in Japan in 1953.
Q: What is a boxer engine?
A: A boxer engine is a unique horizontally opposed engine design that provides a lower center of gravity for the car.
Q: Does Subaru produce electric cars?
A: Yes, Subaru produces electric cars, including the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.
Q: What is EyeSight Driver Assist Technology?
A: EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is a suite of safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Subaru has a fascinating origin story that started with its focus on aircraft technology and eventually shifted to car production. The brand’s commitment to innovation and focus on safety, durability, and reliability has made it a popular choice among car enthusiasts for decades. With its unique boxer engine design, all-wheel-drive technology, and impressive safety features, it’s no wonder why Subaru has become a standout Japanese automaker.
