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Concept

Fire up the rumour mill, this Subaru concept is an homage to rallying

Subaru unveils the Sport Mobility concept in Tokyo. We get very excited

Published: 25 Oct 2023

Subaru and motorsport is a combination that conjures up more than a little nostalgia, so we are completely and utterly on-board for this Subaru Sport Mobility concept. Slap some rally stickers and gold wheels on it immediately.

Revealed today at the Japan Mobility Show, we know one thing - and only one thing about it: it’s electric. There are no power figures or motor set-up info to go on, merely the knowledge that somewhere in there (probably the floor) is a whopping great battery of some description.

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That leaves us to deduce the detail from what we can see: check out the huge intake and bonnet scoop, chunky Bridgestone tyres and those curious hexagonal wheel covers. Should look at home on the Monte Carlo Rally in 2076, right?

According to the brand, the concept "expresses the enjoyment that Subaru offers in the age of electrification, embodying the pleasure of going anywhere, anytime, and driving at will in everyday to extraordinary environments". Make of that what you will.

It goes on to say that the Sport Mobility is designed to put the driver front and centre of the experience, "controlling all four wheels at will". Yeah, we’re gonna need some details please.

Other than multi-wheel steering, the seating position is low - good for visibility and perceptibility, claims Subaru - and offers "peace of mind" on the go.

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Meanwhile the body panels are designed to shrink the surface area and limit the character lines of the car, giving it "a taut, clean, three-dimensional shape that provides a sense of protection and airflow". Again, make of that what you will.

Not something we’re likely to see in production any time soon (or at all), of course, but good to know that the designers at Subaru haven’t entirely forgotten about its rallying exploits of yesteryear.

Come on Subie, a one-off working prototype is the logical next step, and preferably with an old-school boxer engine under the bonnet...

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