Remember the Subaru Brat? The iconic low-riding pickup from the late ’70s and ’80s? Even US President Ronald Reagan owned a 1978 Subaru Brat. Well, word on the street is that the small Subaru pickup will return as a full-on EV, with help from Toyota.
Is Subaru launching an EV pickup?
Subaru isn’t particularly known for its electric cars, as it currently only offers one: the Solterra SUV. That will soon change with plans to launch several over the next few years.
According to CarsGuide, that will likely include its first all-electric pickup. The Subaru Brat, also known as Brumpy in Australia, is rumored to be making a comeback as an EV.
It’s expected to be based on Toyota’s “EPU” electric pickup concept showcased at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show. Subaru and Toyota recently expanded their alliance with plans to develop a series of new EVs together over the next few years, like the current bZ4X and Solterra models.
Although no details have been confirmed, the EV pickup is expected to retain a design similar to the Brat’s stumpy, compact two-seater.
Subaru called the Brat a “fun in the sun” vehicle, equipped with its “on-demand” 4WD system. It was available in three trims: DL, GL, and turbo GL-10. Even US President Ronald Reagan owned a 1978 Brat.
You can expect it to retain the all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain, along with added drive modes for various terrains, including mud, snow, sand, and more.
Toyota confirmed earlier this year its plans to launch an electric pickup as one of three new EVs in Europe by 2026, but didn’t offer any other details.
The EPU concept measures 5,070 mm in length, 1,910 mm in width, and 1,710 mm in height, compared to the Subaru Brat with a length of 4,424 mm, a width of 1,620 mm, and a height of 1,415 mm. To differentiate the upcoming EV pickups, Subaru is likely to offer a smaller, possibly two-seat option.
Will it make its way to the US? It’s unlikely with Trump’s new auto tariffs, but Subaru plans to launch at least one more EV in the US.
At the 2025 NY Auto Show earlier this year, Subaru introduced the 2026 Trailseeker, the brand’s second global EV. The Trailseeker offers more cargo space and a taller roof than the Solterra, with a range of up to 260 miles.
Would you buy an electric Subaru pickup in the US? It likely wouldn’t look like Brat with larger trucks and SUVs dominating US sales. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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