Subaru does not build many cars like the Subaru R1e: a 3-door hatch, made in small numbers.
Where it came from
The Subaru R1e was a battery-electric microcar produced by Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), first shown at the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show. The concept was jointly developed to prototype form with Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO), the giant Japanese utility company. At least 40 prototypes were built by FHI and tested by TEPCO and the New York Power Authority. The vehicle had a range of 80 kilometres (50 mi) and a top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph).
Under the skin
The record carries the shape — a 3-door hatch. The engine, output and weight have not yet reached the open record, and MotorJury does not guess at them.
In context
Where it sits in Subaru's history is not in doubt: the Subaru G4e followed it. Nearby in the Subaru catalogue sit the Subaru Chiffon and the Subaru Lucra.
Subaru1953