Subaru’s new compact moped, modeled after the legendary “Rabbit” [Japan Mobility Show 2025]

Subaru e-Rabbit concept *Reference exhibit vehicle

“Specific small motorized bicycle (specific small moped)” that can be driven without a driver’s license

The “specified small motorized bicycle (specified small moped)” came into effect on July 1, 2023. The main conditions for a specified small moped are:

・Maximum speed 20km/h (riding on sidewalks is 6km/h or less → specially specified small motorized bicycles)

・Riding is limited to roadways, bicycle paths, and bicycle-only lanes (riding on sidewalks is 6km/h or less → specially specified small motorized bicycles)

・Wearing a helmet is mandatory

・You must be 16 years of age or older to drive・

No driver’s license required

・License plates and compulsory automobile liability insurance are required

It has the authentic construction you’d expect from a car manufacturer, with front and rear disc brakes, front and rear suspension, and sheet metal exterior!

The photo shows the “e-Rabbit concept,” a prototype small moped produced by the Japanese car manufacturer Subaru. This seatless, stand-up electric scooter is modeled after the famous “Rabbit Scooter,” a vehicle produced by Subaru’s predecessor, Fuji Heavy Industries, and incorporates the authentic mechanisms you’d expect from a car manufacturer.

The front and rear wheels are ultra-small diameter for easy maneuverability, and the front and rear brakes are disc type with high stopping power. The front has an upright fork and the rear has a unique shock absorption mechanism, achieving a good ride comfort and excellent driving stability.

The LCD meter set in the center of the steering wheel is a multi-function type that was designed and manufactured from scratch specifically for the e-Rabbit concept by Subaru engineers. The meticulous attention to detail, such as the handcrafted sheet metal covers, is also impressive, as is the kind of attention to detail that only an automobile manufacturer can provide.

Despite being a compact moped, it has a sophisticated and beautiful design and excellent overall balance, which shows how serious Subaru’s engineers are about it, and we would like to give a big round of applause for the thorough and no-corner-cutting design!

●Production cooperation companies: JMC Co., Ltd. / Applied Electric Co., Ltd. / Takasaki Joint Computing Center Co., Ltd.

Development concept of the e-Rabbit concept

– We want to continue to create a safe mobility society . – We want to pursue safety and enjoyment from all perspectives

, not just in automobiles. – So, why not try making it with
our own hands first and find out for yourself?

With this in mind, the e-Rabbit concept was designed and built by Subaru employees in unison.

Three points about the e-Rabbit concept

① Cultivating Subaru people who will lead manufacturing innovation and value creation

The e-Rabbit concept began with activities to develop the “people” who will be the driving force behind “innovation in manufacturing” and “value creation.” By creating opportunities for engineers to collaborate across departments and create value themselves through learning and practicing technology , the company is cultivating human resources who will lead change.

② “Human-centered design” and “safety” philosophy

The e-Rabbit concept was developed by automotive engineers, and the development philosophy is the same as that of automobiles . The values of “safety and fun” are incorporated throughout, including a wide step board that allows for stable riding .

3. A fusion of retro design and cutting-edge technology

Based on the motif of the first-generation “Rabbit Scooter” manufactured by Subaru’s predecessor, Fuji Heavy Industries, the scooter has been redesigned to look great in modern cityscapes. The control unit, which acts as the brain of the vehicle, has also been developed in-house, giving it the flexibility and expandability to be updated according to the driving environment.

What is the “Rabbit Scooter” produced by Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru)?

The Rabbit Scooter was a scooter-type motorcycle that was manufactured and sold by Fuji Heavy Industries (now Subaru) from 1946 to 1968 and was ridden with both feet together. Over the course of 23 years, various models were born under the “Rabbit” name. The photo shows a 1967 Rabbit Superflow 125. It was an S301 torque converter vehicle, eliminating the need for shifting gears. For more details, see the page below!