Safety ratings (from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency)
Economy
Electrical energy consumed from the battery over a given distance.
Economy
{model}
{wh}
kWh/100 km
Economy
{model}
{km}
km/kWh
Energy consumption is displayed on the dashboard and is re-calculated as you drive. It is different to the WLTP-rated consumption (which measures power from the mains).
This number is estimated by comparing the usable battery capacity against the WLTP range.
How far the vehicle will travel on a single charge, accounting for local driving conditions.
Adjust for the portion of urban/city driving vs highway (100 km/h) that you typically do.
Consumption ⚡️
How much electrical energy does the vehicle use while driving?
Higher speeds increase energy consumption (due to aerodynamic drag and reduced opportunity for electricity regeneration). Cold temperatures also increase consumption.
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) ⚡️
V2L allows electricity to flow from the battery to power appliances.
Some vehicles have interior NZ sockets, while others require an adapter be plugged into the Type 2 exterior charging socket.
Tow Capacity
Unbraked (kg) / Braked (kg)
Most EVs can have towbars fitted for carrying bikes (but not for towing loads).
Towing a load will significantly decrease range (typically by 50%).
The maximum charging rate the EV can support at home or public AC charging.
An EV has a built-in charger that converts household AC electricity into DC current that goes into the battery.
This limits the maximum speed you can charge at home - no matter what extra equipment you install. Single-phase power supports up to 7.4 kW - if the EV can take more than this, three-phase power must be available at the property.
Fast Charge ⚡
The maximum charging rate the EV can support at a DC fast charger.
Charging power also is limited by the capacity of the charging station.
In NZ, fast chargers are typically 25 kW, 50 kW, 100 kW, 175 kW, and 300 kW.
Cold temperatures and the vehicle's charging curve also dictate peak speed (i.e. a warm battery at a lower state-of-charge will charge quicker).
The Solterra marks a new era for Subaru, a brand that has been slow to move toward hybrids or full electrics. The Solterra is built on the same platform as the Toyota bZX4, and is similar in look and specs.
In terms of size and footprint, the Solterra sits between the current Forester and Outback models.
Current models
Subaru Solterra
2023-present
The base model Solterra is equipped with All-Wheel Drive and 18” alloy wheels. It has a 10-way power driver’s seat, front seat heaters, and a power rear tailgate. Inside, there’s a dual-zone A/C system, a 12.3” centre display, and wireless compatibility with Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Additional features include Dual X-MODE, S pedal drive, a cloth interior, and a sound system with six speakers.
The Touring trim has 20” alloy wheels, wireless phone charging, and memory functions for both driver and passenger seats. The interior is finished in leather upholstery, and there’s a panorama sunroof. The audio system uses Harman Kardon speakers. The steering wheel and rear seats are also heated, and the car is equipped with satellite navigation and intelligent park assist.
