Subaru’s New Plug-In Hybrid Could Be Called The Evoltis

Subaru will introduce a new plug-in hybrid later this year and it now appears the model could be called the Evoltis.

As discovered by Car and Driver, Subaru filed an application for the Evoltis moniker with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on March 26th. According to information submitted along with the application, the name is slated to be used on goods and services such as automobiles. While companies trademark names all the time, the publication notes the application has a 1B code which means Subaru has an “intent to use” to use the name.

Subaru hasn’t said much about the model but the company’s chief technical officer, Takeshi Tachimori, previously told Automotive News “We have used Toyota’s technologies as much as possible.” He also confirmed the car will have some unique traits including a longitudinally-mounted Subaru engine rather than a transversely-mounted Toyota engine.

Since the car will be heavily influenced by the Toyota Prius Prime, it will likely come equipped with a familiar plug-in hybrid powertrain that features an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission, an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and two electric motors.

Since the Subaru model will use a unique engine, specifications remain a mystery. However, it’s worth noting the Prius Prime has a combined output of 121 hp (90 kW) and can travel up to 25 miles (40 miles) on electricity alone.

Interestingly, Car and Driver suggests the Evoltis could come equipped with Toyota’s E-Four all-wheel drive system that is offered on the Prius in Japan. The system uses an additional electric motor and would enable Subaru to offer yet another model with all-wheel drive.

There’s no word on when the plug-in hybrid will go on sale but Tachimori suggested the car will be available initially in states that follow California’s Zero Emission Vehicle program. This means the model will likely be launched in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New York, and Oregon.

Note: Subaru Crosstrek pictured