The R1e electric Subaru is scheduled to start quietly rolling off dealer lots from 2009, over a year ahead of schedule. The R1e is based off the standard R1 (petrol powered) and has an electric motor and runs on lithium-ion batteries.

The car has a maximum speed of 62 mph and will only travel 50 miles but can be recharged to 80% capacity in about 8 minutes.

There has been no real talk of price however rumours have it coming in at just above $17,000.