The Subaru Difference, Journeying Toward the Future

Did you think that Subaru only manufactured cars? 

Subaru Corporation is not just about cars; Subaru is a versatile company with a wide range of products and services. 

Subaru Corp. has made a significant stride in its expansion into the aerospace industry. The company has announced its participation in the Japan International Aerospace Exhibition 2024 (JA2024), a prestigious event held by the Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies at Tokyo Big Sight in Koto-ku, Tokyo, on October 16-19, 2024. This marks a pivotal moment in Subaru's journey towards becoming a significant player in the aerospace sector. 

Subaru says this year, "We will exhibit our products and technologies under the theme of "The Subaru Difference: Journeying Toward the Future" and showcase our initiatives for the next generation."

Subaru is not just a car manufacturer; it's a pioneer in shaping the future of mobility.

Subaru manufactures helicopters.

In the Helicopter Experience Zone, Subaru will exhibit a full-scale cabin mockup of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's "UH-2" multipurpose helicopter. Visitors will have the chance to enter and explore the spacious interior of the cabin, which is one of the features of the UH-2.

In the Defense Business Zone, there will be displays of models of the "T-5" training aircraft for the Maritime Self-Defense Force and the "T-7" primary trainer aircraft for the Air Self-Defense Force. Subaru will also showcase its achievements in development related to unmanned aircraft systems. Additionally, visitors will be able to experience the VR training system.

Subaru manufactures airplane wings.

In the Commercial Business Zone, a video will introduce the manufacturing process of the Boeing 787 center wing box, which Subaru has played a key role in developing and manufacturing.

In the Future Technologies Zone, under the theme "The Subaru Difference: Journeying Toward the Future," various next-generation technologies will be introduced through slide presentations and video displays.

Subaru is manufacturing a flying car. 

In the Future Mobility Zone, Subaru will showcase a concept model that embodies Subaru's vision for a future of 'more flexible mobility.' This model, known as the Subaru Air Mobility Concept, is an innovative flying car with its first successful test flight last year. The concept will be displayed alongside the 'Subaru 360', an iconic mini-car that marked a significant milestone in the history of mobility. Check my report on the ugly little car here.

I covered the Subaru Air Mobility Concept when it first appeared at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. 

What is Subaru's aerospace division doing now?

Japan's Ministry of Economy has selected Subaru Corporation to play a crucial role in the development of the world's first flying car. Alongside industry giants like Uber and Boeing, Subaru is at the forefront of this pioneering project, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobility technology. 

Subaru surprised everyone at the Japan Mobility Show 2023, except those who know what's going on behind the scenes. Subaru will have a new flying car. Check out my report here.

Subaru says, "As electrification and automation technology evolves, expectations are rising for new air mobility that will bring about an "air mobility revolution" in the aviation world, and Subaru's vision for the future of "freer movement" is demonstrated. It is a concept model. Aerospace and automotive engineers are currently working together to conduct flight demonstrations."

Automotive News reported in 2018 that Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry launched the project with a meeting that pulled together public agencies and private industry. The government wants Japan to have a leading role in personal flying vehicles.

"Globally, there is a growing interest in what is called 'flying cars' that will enable such transportation services in the sky," the trade ministry said in a statement after the meeting. "Japan, too, aims to achieve speedier and more convenient transportation services for people and goods while trying to create a new industry that can be competitive and profitable in world markets."

It's not if but when Subaru produces a flying car. 

The first flying cars will likely be less like a highway-safe automobile and more akin to a glorified drone, "with helicopter-like rotors and room for only one or two people." "It is not a car," ministry official Hiroyuki Ushijima said. "It is more of a mobility service."

"Flying cars could help relieve traffic congestion on our highways, and they could also improve mobility for people living in remote, mountainous areas and isolated islands and aid in disaster relief," Ushijima said. The Japanese government is calling on familiar names such as Uber Japan, Airbus Japan, Boeing Japan, and Subaru Corporation, which is participating in its capacity as a maker of aircraft and automobiles.

Subaru Corp. says its "Air Mobility Concept" had its first successful test flight last year. Subaru is more than a car company; it is launching into the future with a new personal flying vehicle. Stay tuned. 

Did you know Subaru Corp. had an aerospace division? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know what you think about Subaru’s future mobility vehicles.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru