Subaru Remains the Only Manufacturer with
IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK for all models
Tokyo, December 24, 2010 – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, today announced that Subaru of America, Inc.* released for the second consecutive year it has been recognized as the only automotive manufacturer with a 2011 TOP SAFETY PICK winner in every vehicle class in which it competes by the Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).
IIHS provides to consumers safety information about vehicles with four-level rating system. Front the previous 2010 assessment, for the first time, good performance in the roof strength to measure protection in a rollover is required to win. TOP SAFETY PICK recognizes vehicles that, in IIHS testing, does the best job of protecting people in front, side, rear and now rollover crashes based on “good” ratings, which denotes “good” as the top ranking status possible in Institute tests. Its frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph frontal offset crash tests. Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph. The effectiveness of the head restraints is evaluated in the rear crash protection. Winners also must have standard electronic stability control (VDC** for Subaru vehicles).
“We know our customers take their safety very seriously and so we are very pleased that IIHS has recognized us again as the only manufacturer with a TOP SAFETY PICK winner for all its models,” said Tom Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. “This is an outstanding success and a tribute to the engineering that goes into Subaru products. The IIHS reinforces to our customers that Subaru maintains the highest standards to produce vehicles that are s fun-to-drive, durable, reliable as well as safe.”
Subaru will further enhance its renowned excellent safety performance by refining distinctive technologies and continue providing confidence with driving and peace of mind to our customers.
| * | Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles in the United States. |
| ** | Vehicle Dynamics Control |
About Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, is a leading manufacturer in Japan with a long history of technological innovations that dates back to its origin as an aircraft company. While the automotive business is a main business pillar, FHI’s Aerospace, Industrial Products and Eco Technologies divisions offer a diverse range of products from general-purpose engines, power generators, and sanitation trucks to small airplanes, crucial components for passenger aircrafts, and wind-powered electricity generating systems. Recognized internationally for its AWD (all-wheel drive) technology and Horizontally-Opposed engines in Subaru, FHI is also spearheading the development of environmentally friendly products and is committed to contributing to global environmental preservation.