Ever since Subarus hit American shores in the 1960’s, they’ve become a mainstay of our automotive identity. They’ve made their impact on pop culture with iconic appearances in several blockbuster movies. Most recently, the Subaru BRZ was named to Car and Driver’s 10Best Cars list, the coupe’s third consecutive award.
That said, the company is still shrouded in a curious but alluring mystique. To shine some light on Subaru’s past endeavors, here are five facts about the Japanese manufacturer that you may not have realized.
Their Interstellar Logo is Mythic
Subaru’s name is derived from the Pleiades star cluster, a segment of the Taurus constellation. The seven stars that comprise the cluster reference the “Seven Sisters,” the seven daughters of Atlas that were turned into stars in Greek mythology. Why, then, did the original Subaru logo only include six stars? Because the seventh is rarely visible in the Japanese night sky.
Subaru’s commitment to their mythological roots has proven so extensive, they even produced an anime to go along with it. The four-part “Wish Upon The Pleiades” was released on YouTube in 2015 and got a television release in 2015. Apart from the main character being named Subaru, it has absolutely nothing to do with cars.
They Use a Boxer Engine in Every Vehicle
This innovative engine has functioned as the beating heart of every Subaru model for the past 57 years. First utilized in 1966’s Subaru 1000, the boxer engine is named after the horizontal movement of its pistons – like a boxer throwing punches in the ring. This movement lowers the center of gravity of the engine, allowing for more responsive performance.
This unique layout enables engine output to flow directly into transmission, which in turn results in better fuel economy. The boxer engine is the beating heart of every Subaru, and it’s the reason Subaru drivers get better mileage than their competitors. Speaking of sustainability...
They Leave Nothing to Waste
Subaru’s American factory in Lafayette, Indiana not only produces Subaru vehicles with great efficiency – they're one of the country’s leaders when it comes to recycling efficiency. The facility has sent no materials to landfills since 2004, when it became the first zero-waste factory in the United States.
In the two decades since, Subaru has only grown more committed to their economic responsibilities. They frequently share their sustainability tips with other manufacturers. And with the rise of the all-electric Solterra SUV, Subaru is establishing itself as a major player in the rapidly developing EV market.
Their First Vehicle Was an Airplane Turned into a Scooter
To get to the Solterra, Subaru would first have to begin with the Fuji Rabbit. In 1946, during the aftermath of World War II, the newly formed Fuji Heavy Industries was desperate to stabilize the Japanese economy. They looked towards transportation, as cheap, motorized transport had become a necessity.
Fortunately, Fuji Heavy Industries was born from the remains of the former Nakajima aircraft company. Thus, the future minds of Subaru were able to convert certain airplane parts, such as bomber tail wheels, to craft the Fuji Rabbit scooter. The Rabbit turned out to be a hit, and the rest is history.
They’re Also Trying to Save the Animals
In addition to being at the forefront of the automotive industry's sustainability efforts, Subaru has been a longtime partner of the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). Since 2008, they’ve donated over 20 million dollars to aid in the fight against animal abuse. And now, thanks to the Subaru VIP Program, you can get involved as well.
Bonus Fact: You Need to Get to New Motors Subaru Today
Kick off 2024 in style here at New Motors Subaru, Erie’s home for new and used Subarus, from the Crosstrek to the WRX. Whether the new year calls for new brakes or new tires, New Motors is always here to keep you informed and keep you on the road.
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