Subaru Begins Hybrid Car Production in Indiana

Subaru's first-ever hybrid model made in the U.S. rolls off the assembly line in Lafayette.

Feb. 2, 2026 at 5:55pm

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Subaru of Indiana Automotive has begun production of the 2026 Forester Hybrid Premium, the company's first-ever hybrid car made in the United States. The facility in Tippecanoe County, Indiana started mass production on Tuesday, with a version painted in autumn green metallic being the first to roll off the assembly line.

Why it matters

This move marks an important milestone for Subaru as it expands its hybrid vehicle offerings in the U.S. market. The Forester has been a popular model since joining Subaru's lineup in 1997, and the addition of a hybrid version aligns with growing consumer demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly vehicles.

The details

Subaru's Indiana facility has been working for five years to bring hybrid vehicle assembly to the plant. The 2026 Forester Hybrid Premium is now the second most popular Subaru model produced at the Lafayette location, alongside the Crosstrek. The facility currently employs around 6,500 people and also assembles the Ascent and Forester gas models.

  • Subaru began production of the 2026 Forester Hybrid Premium on February 2, 2026.
  • The facility started production of the 2026 Forester gas model on October 7, 2025.

The players

Subaru of Indiana Automotive

Subaru's only manufacturing facility outside of Japan, located in Lafayette, Indiana. The facility currently assembles the Ascent, Crosstrek, and Forester models.

Scott Brand

President and Chief Operating Officer of Subaru of Indiana Automotive.

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What they’re saying

“Bringing hybrid vehicle assembly to our Lafayette facility has been in the works for five years. Seeing the start of mass production is highly rewarding and the culmination of a lot of hard work by our associates.”

— Scott Brand, President and Chief Operating Officer

“Since joining Subaru's lineup in 1997, the Forester has been a popular car. Along with the Crosstrek, we're now producing the two most popular Subaru models in the U.S.”

— Scott Brand, President and Chief Operating Officer

What’s next

Subaru plans to continue expanding its hybrid vehicle offerings in the coming years as it works to meet growing consumer demand for more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly models.

The takeaway

Subaru's decision to begin hybrid car production at its Indiana facility demonstrates the company's commitment to adapting to changing market trends and consumer preferences. This move positions Subaru to remain competitive in the increasingly crowded hybrid and electric vehicle space.