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Subaru Unveils B11S Concept Car at Geneva Motor Show
 Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), a global manufacturer of transportation and aerospace-related products and the maker of Subaru automobiles, has unveiled a revolutionary concept car, the Subaru B11S, at the 73rd International Geneva Motor Show. Combining sophisticated sporty design with ample interior space, the Subaru B11S showcases FHI’s future design direction and strengthened design capabilities.
Like every Subaru, however, the B11S also features superb driving performance, ensured by Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Driving System in combination with a horizontally-opposed boxer engine.
Since Kyoji Takenaka became President and Chief Operating Officer in June 2001, FHI has placed a new emphasis on design. As part of this new creative direction, experienced Subaru car designer Kiyoshi Sugimoto, was named Vice President, Senior General Manager of the Subaru Product and Portfolio Planning Division and General Manager of the Subaru Design Department – the first car designer ever to be appointed as an executive officer.
The Subaru B11S is the first concept car designed under Mr. Sugimoto’s leadership. After early consultation with Mr. Takenaka on initial concept development, FHI retained the Barcelona-based independent design studio, Fuore Design International, to assist with the creation of the B11S.
 The B11S Design Concept
The Subaru B11S pursues the concept of Gran Utility Turismo, which embodies the perfect blend of sporty driving, comfort, functionality and elegance. It features attractive styling and packaging to reflect FHI’s Innovative, Individual and Courageous corporate philosophy; Subaru’s technological strengths, such as the horizontally-opposed engine and Symmetrical AWD system; and driving performance equivalent to a high-performance sports car for the enthusiast.
1. Exterior Design
Composed of sophisticated flowing curves, the exterior is elegant and sleek. The front fascia reflects the turbine of a small jet plane and the freedom of flying – an association with FHI’s corporate roots as an aircraft company as well as a reminder of outstanding aerodynamic technology and performance.
The side doors open like gates and latch in the middle without a conventional B-pillar, an arrangement that facilitates access to the back seats and makes the interior room seem even more spacious. Developed specifically for the B11S, the frosted glass roof provides an open-air feeling, as in a convertible, and creates a soft, natural light inside. The unique glass roof design was inspired by the design and construction of traditional Japanese umbrellas.
2. Interior Design
In contrast to the white pearl body colour, the interior is Subaru’s signature blue. The total effect is elegant but understated, reminiscent of Japanese interior decoration and its subtle attention to detail. The interior provides a comfortable space for four passengers and the folding back seats allow easy access to and from the trunk for luggage.
3. Driving Performance
The B11S will be equipped with a new horizontally-opposed, 6-cylinder engine still under development. Design goals include fun-to-drive twin turbo-charged power, the exceptional low- and mid-range torque that distinguishes all Subaru powerplants, and plenty of power – 394 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. Strong emphasis will also be placed on minimizing both fuel consumption and emissions.
 The AWD system will be integrated with a 5-speed automatic transmission with VTD (Variable Torque Distribution). This sophisticated All-Wheel Driving System enhances vehicle stability. The VTD automatic transmission uses a planetary gear-type centre differential and electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutches that control power distribution between the wheels. The addition of VTD means that torque can be split between the front and rear wheels as needed, in response to road conditions. 
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