Peter Banks If you’re a car enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of Subaru – the Japanese automaker that has earned a reputation for producing reliable and high-performance vehicles. But have you ever wondered who owns Subaru and how the company has changed over the years? In this article, we’ll explore Subaru’s ownership and history, how it has impacted the brand, and what the future holds for the company.
Who Owns Subaru?
Subaru is currently owned by the Japanese conglomerate, Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries), which is also the parent company of several other brands including aerospace and industrial product business.
However, Subaru has changed ownership over the years. In the early 1950s, five Japanese companies founded Fuji Heavy Industries, which produced buses, engines, and other industrial products. It later introduced the Subaru car brand in 1958. In 2005, General Motors acquired a 20% stake in Subaru’s parent company, but eventually sold it back to the company in 2017. Today, Subaru Corporation is solely owned by the Japanese entities.
The Role of Parent Company in Shaping Subaru’s Direction
Subaru Corporation plays a significant role in shaping Subaru’s direction, as the parent company is responsible for funding and overseeing all aspects of the Subaru brand. Although the Subaru brand has always been distinct from its parent company’s other interests, the parent company provides Subaru with the resources and infrastructure necessary to continue producing high-quality vehicles that appeal to a diverse customer base.
Subaru’s parent company has also been committed to improving the brand’s environmental impact. In 2007, the company introduced the Subaru Stella electric vehicle, which was powered by lithium-ion batteries, and in 2013, it launched the first mass-produced all-electric car, Subaru R1e. Moreover, they have introduced a 100% fully-owned electric and plug-in hybrid model to shake up the electric vehicle market in the near future.
The Impact of Ownership on Subaru’s Product Lineup
Ownership changes can also have a significant impact on a company’s product lineup, and Subaru is no exception. In the past, General Motors’ ownership of Subaru’s parent company led to some collaboration in product development, such as the Saab 9-2X, which was based on the Subaru Impreza. However, it did not last long, and it eventually led to the split of ownership.
However, since becoming solely owned by the parent company, Subaru has made significant strides in developing its product lineup independently. The company has focused on manufacturing cars that appeal to a wide range of customers, including sedans, crossovers, and SUVs, all with AWD capabilities that make them ideal for harsh weather conditions.
One of Subaru’s most notable products is the Subaru Outback, a rugged wagon with impressive off-road capabilities. More recently, the Subaru Ascent was introduced to compete in the midsize SUV segment.
Subaru’s Position in the Automotive Industry
Subaru has carved a unique position in the automotive industry by focusing on producing reliable cars that provide excellent driving performance and all-wheel-drive system, like the Subaru WRX. The company has a strong reputation for developing vehicles that perform well in harsh weather conditions, making them particularly appealing to drivers in regions that experience heavy snowfall or rainfall.
Moreover, Subaru is known for its commitment to safety, as evidenced by its excellent safety ratings from major organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Frequently Asked Questions
Who currently owns Subaru?
Subaru Corporation (formerly Fuji Heavy Industries) is the current owner of Subaru.
Has Subaru changed ownership over the years?
Yes, Subaru has changed ownership over the years. In 2005, General Motors acquired a 20% stake in Subaru’s parent company, but eventually sold it back to the company in 2017. Today, Subaru Corporation is solely owned by the Japanese entities.
What impact has ownership had on Subaru’s product lineup?
Ownership changes can have a significant impact on a company’s product lineup, and Subaru is no exception. Since becoming solely owned by the parent company, Subaru has focused on manufacturing cars that appeal to a wide range of customers, including sedans, crossovers, and SUVs, all with AWD capabilities.
What is Subaru’s position in the automotive industry?
Subaru has carved a unique position in the automotive industry by focusing on producing reliable cars that provide excellent driving performance and all-wheel-drive system. The company is also known for its commitment to safety, earning excellent safety ratings from major safety organizations.
In conclusion, Subaru’s ownership and history have shaped the company’s direction, product lineup, and position in the automotive industry. As we look to the future, Subaru Corporation will continue to provide resources and infrastructure to build on Subaru’s reputation for innovation, quality, and reliability.
