Subaru’s Electric BRAT

Electric Subaru Pickup

Subaru enthusiasts from the late ’70s and ’80s might remember the Bi-drive Recreational All-terrain Transporter, or the BRAT. It was a quirky light-duty pickup that had a solid fan base in the United States before it was discontinued in 1987. Fast forward a few decades, and word on the street is that Subaru might bring back the BRAT, but with a twist—it’s going all-electric. For fans of traditional utility trucks, this might not be what they hoped for, but the nostalgia mixed with modern technology is a fascinating combo.

Partnership Power

It seems Subaru is teaming up with Toyota for this new BRAT project. Anyone who’s seen the Toyota EPU concept might see where Subaru’s heading, as both companies have a history of collaboration, with models like the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ to their credit. The debut of Toyota’s electric pickup earlier this year only adds fuel to the rumors that Subaru has a twin in the works.

The original BRAT was known for its two-seater setup, and if Subaru follows this design again, it would set itself apart in today’s market. Most compact trucks in the U.S., like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, come with two rows and seat five.

The future BRAT is likely to feature Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system, and chatter indicates it could boast around 375 horsepower. Even if it clocks in at a bit less, say 275 hp, it would be a far cry from the original’s modest 1.8-liter engine.

Going Electric?

The Ford Maverick broke new ground with its hybrid option, achieving a staggering 38 mpg combined, which makes it America’s most fuel-efficient pickup. Subaru’s electric BRAT could take that further, offering an even lower cost per mile.

Sure, electric trucks typically lag behind when it comes to towing and payload capabilities compared to their gas or hybrid siblings. But in the compact segment, these stats might not be deal-breakers. An all-electric compact truck could be appealing not just because it’s environmentally friendly, but also because it offers a quieter, smoother ride than its internal combustion counterparts.

Should the BRAT stage a comeback, there’s still some uncertainty if it would hit American shores. Yet with the resurging interest in compact pickups, Subaru might see the U.S. as a prime market to revive the beloved BRAT.