Subaru Builds a Better Battery (For Plug-In)

Washington DC November 7, 2007; The AIADA newsletter reported that bucking the industry trend towards Hydrogen fuel cells, Subaru has released a vastly improved second cut at a plug-in battery-electric commuter car.

The 65-kilowatt, 5-seater G4e's new high energy-density lithium-ion batteries give it a 200km range from a charge and using a quick-charger it can be topped up to 80% in only 15 minutes. According to BusinessWeek, the new Subaru's stats make it an instantly viable commuter, while underlining the exciting potential the battery sector will offer.

With 40 units of Subaru's older EV R1e battery-electric vehicle already out, Subaru has announced the arrival of an updated 5-door version with more than twice the range thanks to advances in lithium-ion battery technology.

The G4e (which stands for "Good 4 Earth") has a aerodynamically-efficient exterior that helps to get the most from the battery pack, which is located under the floor of the vehicle to keep a low, stable center of gravity.