The Subaru R1e uses fast-charge lithium ion battery technology. The two-seat Subaru R1e is capable of driving at speeds up to 65 mph with a range of up to 50 miles. The Subaru R1e can be “quick-charged” to 80 percent capacity in only 15 minutes using quick-charge technology. The vehicle can be fully charged overnight (eight hours) while connected to a standard household electrical outlet.

With 40 Subaru R1e vehicles currently in use, Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries is adding 100 more electric vehicles into a consumer test program in Japan in 2009.