Alton Brobst Subaru is a Japanese car brand known for producing high-performing, reliable, and innovative vehicles. The brand’s name is derived from the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, which in ancient mythology is also known as the Seven Sisters. This is why the Subaru logo features six stars, with one star missing to represent one of the sisters who is said to have joined a group of hunters.
Subaru’s unique features, including their all-wheel-drive system and boxer engines, have made them a popular choice for car enthusiasts around the world. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of the Subaru brand, including the company’s founders, significant milestones, and notable achievements.
Key Takeaways
- Subaru is a Japanese car brand known for producing high-performing and innovative vehicles.
- The brand’s name is derived from the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, which is why the Subaru logo features six stars.
- Subaru’s unique features, including their all-wheel-drive system and boxer engines, have made them a popular choice for car enthusiasts around the world.
Founding of Subaru
Subaru was founded in 1953 as a division of Fuji Heavy Industries, a company that was originally involved in the production of aircraft for the Japanese military during World War II. Following the war, Fuji Heavy Industries needed to diversify and decided to enter the automotive industry.
Kenji Kita was the founder of Subaru and played a significant role in the development of the company. Kita was a former pilot and engineer who had a passion for cars, and he was inspired to create a car that could handle Japan’s rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions.
In 1954, Subaru released its first car, the Subaru 1500. The car was powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and had a top speed of 60 miles per hour. The car was not very successful, but it was an important stepping stone for the company.
Subaru’s Significant Milestones
1960s: Expansion and Growth
In the 1960s, Subaru began expanding its product line and entered the Australian and New Zealand markets. The company released the Subaru 360, a small car that was a hit in Japan and helped to establish Subaru’s reputation for reliability and innovation.
1970s: A Focus on All-Wheel Drive
In the 1970s, Subaru began to focus on all-wheel-drive technology. The company released the Subaru Leone, a compact car that was one of the first vehicles to feature a four-wheel-drive system. The all-wheel-drive system allowed the car to handle rough terrain and extreme weather conditions, making it a popular choice for drivers in rural areas.
1980s: The Rise of the Subaru Legacy
In the 1980s, Subaru released the Legacy, a mid-sized car that became one of the company’s most popular models. The Legacy was known for its durability, reliability, and all-wheel-drive system, which made it a hit with car enthusiasts and families alike.
1990s: The Introduction of the Impreza
In the 1990s, Subaru introduced the Impreza, a compact car that was designed for performance. The Impreza featured a turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, making it a popular choice for rally car racing. The Impreza’s success on the rally circuit helped to establish Subaru as a brand that was synonymous with performance and innovation.
2000s: The Launch of the Tribeca
In the 2000s, Subaru launched the Tribeca, a crossover SUV that was designed for families. The Tribeca featured a spacious interior, all-wheel-drive system, and advanced safety features, making it a popular choice for parents who wanted a reliable and safe vehicle for their families.
2010s: The Rise of the Crosstrek and the BRZ
In the 2010s, Subaru released the Crosstrek, a compact crossover SUV, and the BRZ, a sports car that was developed in partnership with Toyota. The Crosstrek was designed for adventure, with features like all-wheel drive and a raised suspension, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The BRZ, on the other hand, was designed for performance, with a rear-wheel-drive system and sport-tuned suspension.
Notable Achievements
Subaru has had many notable achievements throughout its history. Some of the most significant achievements include:
- Winning three World Rally Championship titles with the Subaru Impreza.
- Receiving a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for the 2020 Ascent, Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, and Outback models.
- Introducing the EyeSight driver assist technology, which uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and alert drivers to potential hazards.
- Becoming the first car company to achieve zero landfill status at its manufacturing plants in the United States.
Conclusion
Subaru has come a long way since the release of its first car in 1954. The company has established itself as a brand that is known for producing innovative, reliable, and high-performing vehicles. Subaru’s unique features, including their all-wheel-drive system and boxer engines, have made them a popular choice for car enthusiasts around the world.
With a commitment to safety, performance, and sustainability, Subaru is a brand that continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry.
FAQ
What does the Subaru logo mean?
The Subaru logo features six stars, with one star missing. The logo is based on the Japanese name for the Pleiades star cluster, which is also known as the Seven Sisters. The six stars on the logo represent the six largest stars in the cluster, while the missing star represents one of the sisters who is said to have joined a group of hunters.
What makes Subaru cars unique?
Subaru cars are known for their all-wheel-drive system and boxer engines. The all-wheel-drive system allows for better handling and performance in all weather conditions, while the boxer engine provides a lower center of gravity and better balance.
What is EyeSight driver assist technology?
EyeSight is a driver assist technology developed by Subaru that uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and alert drivers to potential hazards. The technology includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking.
What is Subaru’s commitment to sustainability?
Subaru is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The company has achieved zero landfill status at its manufacturing plants in the United States, and it has also introduced a number of eco-friendly technologies, including hybrid and electric vehicles.
