Subaru e-BOXER: Everything You Need to Know About the New Hybrid Engine | Desjardins Subaru
As fuel emission reduction and energy efficiency become imperatives, the Subaru e-Boxer engine rises to the challenge brilliantly: combining BOXER performance with environmental respect. This technology is perfectly aligned with Subaru's future strategy, which aims to accelerate its green transition.
Development Context of the e-BOXER Engine
The development of the e-BOXER hybrid engine is part of Subaru's global strategy to adapt to new environmental regulations while meeting the growing demand for hybrid vehicles.
The goal was ambitious, and the technical challenge was significant: how to integrate an electric motor and a battery pack into the symmetrical all-wheel drive without compromising the performance of a Subaru BOXER engine ? This issue required great ingenuity, particularly to maintain weight distribution and a low center of gravity, but the engineers achieved an optimal solution: the new Subaru e-BOXER.
The e-BOXER Technology
At the heart of the hybrid system developed by the engineers is a proven 2.0L 4-cylinder Subaru BOXER engine, optimized to integrate harmoniously with the hybrid system. The modifications made allow for better synergy with the electric components.
The combustion engine is paired with a high-performance electric motor, capable of:
- Driving in 100% electric mode autonomously
- Assisting the gasoline engine to enhance its performance
- Recharging the battery through energy recovery during braking
The Subaru StarDrive technology plays a central role in ensuring a smooth transition between engines, as does the Lineartronic hybrid continuously variable transmission (CVT), specially designed to make the most of the hybrid system.
The mechanics are complemented by a compact nickel-metal hydride battery pack, strategically placed to preserve handling and maximize interior space.
Benefits for Performance and Energy Efficiency
The results of this innovation are convincing, with the Crosstrek establishing itself as one of the cleanest all-wheel-drive hybrid crossovers in North America. Its AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle) certification attests to its exceptional environmental performance.
Indeed, its consumption with the Subaru e-BOXER engine shows a 16% increase in energy efficiency compared to the gasoline version, with an average of 6.9 L/100 km on the highway. These impressive figures are accompanied by a range of up to 774 km in hybrid mode, allowing you to extend your adventures.
In Canada, the Subaru e-BOXER engine will also allow for all-electric driving, enabling you to move forward without a drop of gasoline.
Often, the added weight from the battery is a concern for drivers, who fear a loss of agility. Subaru has met this challenge by arranging the technical components in a perfectly balanced way. You therefore enjoy performance as agile and stable as with Subaru vehicles with a combustion engine.
Additionally, the crossover is assembled in a zero-landfill waste factory, adding to its environmentally friendly side. A green choice for nature lovers.
Integrated Safety Systems in the e-Boxer
Safety has always been a priority for Subaru, as evidenced by IIHS mentions. No compromises: the EyeSight system has been designed to work in harmony with the hybrid engine, providing you with optimal safety and responsiveness.
It also relies on a robust and reliable construction, protecting occupants in the event of a collision. Not to mention the effectiveness of the brand's well-known all-wheel-drive system, which is seamlessly integrated into the system.
Impact of the e-BOXER Engine on Subaru's Drivetrain Systems
Subaru engineers have finely tuned this new system so that it never compromises the DNA of Subaru.
To achieve this, they strategically positioned the combustion engine, all-wheel drive, electric motor, transmission, and battery pack low in the chassis to maintain a lowered center of gravity.
As for the all-wheel drive, the torque distribution is maintained at 60/40 between the front and rear under normal conditions and adapts instantly thanks to a sophisticated network of sensors.
What Are the Maintenance Differences Between the BOXER Engine and the e-BOXER?
Contrary to popular belief, using two mechanics does not increase the need for maintenance; on the contrary, the fact that the combustion engine is less stressed can even result in reduced maintenance!
Pressing the start button activates the SUBARU BOXER engine and prepares the hybrid system for optimal performance right from the start.
The electric motor and the SUBARU BOXER engine work in perfect harmony during accelerations and journeys, providing the driving force; together, they produce a faster and more fuel-efficient response than an engine of the same displacement alone.
This fuel-saving technology allows the gasoline engine to stop when the vehicle is stationary with the brake pedal pressed. Depending on how quickly the brakes are released or the power applied, the vehicle will automatically move forward by restarting the gasoline engine or continuing to drive in EV mode.
Models Equipped with the Subaru e-BOXER
In our market, the Subaru e-BOXER engine will first equip the Crosstrek , then the Forester . However, we can expect more announcements soon from Subaru, well on its way to greener mobility.
Are you looking for a high-performance vehicle to tackle winter or venture off city roads? You will surely find your ideal model at our Desjardins Subaru dealership in Quebec, near Lévis. Book your test drive to discover all the advantages of BOXER engines!
Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru Forester
