An electric STI? Subaru registers the STe trademark in Germany

Subaru has done something interesting as the Japanese automaker has trademarked the "STe" name. It could indicate that the automotive brand has something in the works for an STi-electric vehicle. 

The trademark was filed with the German Intellectual Property Agency on March 13. 

Other than the trademark, further details about the plans of Subaru with the STe name have yet to surface. However, given that it is similar in nomenclature to Subaru Technica International (STI), we could assume that the Japanese automaker is planning for a performance electric vehicle in the future.

It could also indicate that Subaru is also interested in an EV platform. However, it is all speculation at this point. 

The STe name could also be a variant name assigned to unique hybrid or electric versions of existing models such as the Crosstrek, Soleterra, and possibly even a model of the Impreza. It could also be attached to names such as the BRZ once it goes hybrid or fully electric. 

While we assume that the Subaru STe name will be assigned to top-spec performance models, we could also see it appear on the Subaru WRX (Specs | News).

Due to stricter emissions globally, Subaru has stated there will be no replacement after this current generation of its STI-performance cars. Performance hybrid vehicles could be the future for the Japanese brand. 

For now, it's a waiting game to see what Subaru will have in store next for its future lineup of performance cars. In the next few years, we will likely see performance hybrid vehicles with the STe name attached to them.

Subaru already has its electric vehicle in the form of the Subaru Bz4x, with plans to make more EVs to come, thanks to its partnership with Toyota. Electrification is the way for this Japanese automaker as it is ready to make a new generation of electric vehicles.