Business Overview : Automotive Business Unit
Subaru’s history as an automaker began with the launch of the Subaru 360 in 1958. Since then, we have worked continually to provide new value in automobiles by developing new categories based on our core technologies, such as the horizontallyopposed engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD), and by creating new technological value, including EyeSight1, the world’s first driver assist system. These actions have deepened our relationships with customers.
In recent years, we have positioned the U.S. as an important market, with a strategy of concentrating limited management resources in fields in which we should extend our strengths and advantages, including product lineups focused on SUVs and sports models. We provide Enjoyment and Peace of Mind through high value-added products. In addition, we are working to create ever-better cars in our alliance with Toyota Motor Corporation, bringing together our mutual strengths.
*1：EyeSight is the first driver assist system to provide all functionality solely through the use of stereo cameras
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SUBARU’s All-Around Safety
*2：Zero fatal road accidents among occupants of Subaru vehicles and people involved in collisions with Subaru vehicles, including pedestrians and cyclists
Starting from the development of the Subaru 360 more than 60 years ago, Subaru has continued to inherit and pass on the philosophy of giving top priority to safety, because customers entrust their lives to their cars. Even since the 1960s, when the world had not yet come to consider safety a major concern, we have been conducting our own collision safety tests, and today our cars are consistently rated among the best in safety evaluations in Japan and overseas.
SUBARU Core Technologies
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SUBARU Global PlatformBalancing a high degree of both drive quality and passive safety performance
Subaru is sequentially introducing the Subaru Global Platform, starting with the Impreza launched in October 2016. The vehicle platform substantially increases body and chassis rigidity and further lowers vehicle center of gravity, raising the level of Active Safety and Passive Safety and delivering responsive handling performance and a comfortable ride with reduced unpleasant vibration and noise.
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Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)Superior overall weight distribution
The combination of the low center of gravity provided by the horizontally-opposed engine and superior longitudinal-transverse weight balance achieved by placing the transmission near the center of the vehicle maximizes all-wheel drive capability and delivers superb driving performance in various conditions. Subaru has been committed to Symmetrical AWD as a core technology that drivers can depend on in every situation from day-to-day town use to high-speed highway driving.
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Horizontally-Opposed Engine (Boxer engine)Compact, low center of gravity
The horizontally-opposed engine has pistons arranged symmetrically to the left and right of the crankshaft. The opposed pistons mutually cancel out engine vibrations, which reduces vibrations conveyed to the vehicle interior. The engine’s low height and compact design contribute to a low vehicle center of gravity. The stable attitude provides a high sense of security during driving.
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EyeSight Driver Assist TechnologyStereo cameras for advanced object recognition capabilities
By using two cameras positioned on the left and right like human eyes, the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is able to detect vehicles and pedestrians ahead of the vehicle in three dimensions and to accurately determine the distance, shape, and velocity of each object. This preventive safety technology helps avoid accidents, minimizes damage, and reduces the burden on the driver. The next-generation EyeSight system installed in the 2020 Subaru Levorg features redesigned stereo cameras that allow for expanded visibility, as well as 360-degree sensor capabilities from the four radar units located at the front and rear of the vehicle. This system contributes to safe driving in an even wider range of situations, including intersections. In addition, the EyeSight X advanced driver assist system adopted in the new Levorg in Japan combines information from sources such as the GPS and QZSS “Michibiki” satellite systems with high-precision 3D map data, which extends driving support functions including lane change assist, slowing the vehicle before going into a curb, and hands-off driving assist in traffic congestion. We provide the latest features that reduce the burden on the driver and allow for safer, more comfortable road travel, particularly on highways, while maintaining value for money.
