SUBARU'S Solterra has come a long way in just a couple of years, first debuting as the Japanese firm's first all-electric model and now making an impact on the world sporting stage.

The istriking EV now acts as the Official Safety Car for the World Superbike Championship (WorldSBK), marking Subaru Europe's debut in official motorsport and the first time an electric vehicle has taken on this role.

It made its debut in round seven at Donington Park in Leicestershire recently.

This event featured three WorldSBK races, including two on the main race day, along with competitions from World SuperSport and the Women's World Championship.

A WorldSBK statement said it is proud to announce a new partnership with Subaru, marking the start of an unprecedented collaboration from 2025 to 2027, four Subaru Solterra vehicles - the brand's first all-electric SUVs - will play a crucial role at every WorldSBK round.

Seemingly a "left-field" choice, it features enhanced cooling and stiffer suspension for high-speed use, together with spoilers and diffusers.

The interior is basically a stripped-down version with sport bucket seats, roll cage, and safety gear.

It has the same 71.4kWh battery and AWD but is optimised for race track maximum performance.

To maximise its presence, Subaru even allowed guests to take part in exclusive hot laps with a pro driver and well as test drives on the circuit.

The standard model still has an eye catching presence with its high ground clearance (210mm), muscular wheel arches, and a rugged profile that hints at its off-road potential.

There are two specifications, Limited and the Touring model driven here.

Both models have a premium feel and come with a range of features. This model adds 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery. Both trims include heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 360-degree parking camera, making it easier to manoeuvre this large vehicle.

Inside, the SUV has a spacious cabin for five passengers, with plenty of legroom floor.

It offers 452 litres of boot space, along with a 60/40 split-folding seatback and a two-position load floor for flexible storage.

The wide tailgate opening and low lift-over height make loading and unloading simple. Additionally, fixed cross-bar mounting points provide extra options for carrying cargo, which is great for adventurous owners.

Powered by dual 60kW motors and a 71.4kWh battery, it offers a claimed 257 miles of range (WLTP). However, real-world conditions, such as high speeds and adverse weather, can significantly reduce this. Range anxiety with EVs is also diminishing as more rapid charging is available, from 10-80 per cent in under 35 minutes, at 150 kW charging points.

Acceleration is impressive, reaching 0-60mph in about seven seconds. Its off-road capability, thanks to Subaru's Symmetrical AWD and X-MODE, allows it to handle challenging terrains with settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud.

It also handles well, in its everyday form feeling stable and well planted on corners, or in race mode when racing around race tracks.

The interior features a prominent 12.3-inch touchscreen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, alongside a seven-inch digital driver's display that provides real-time information. The touchscreen also manages infotainment through the Harman/Kardon eight-speaker system and navigation.

While the technology is cutting-edge, traditional rotary secondary controls add a sense of robustness to the cabin.

The firm's EyeSight system enhances safety with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. Additional safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, instil confidence in various driving situations, complemented by a full suite of airbags.

Starting at £52,495 for the Limited, it the price puts it among the more expensive options in the electric SUV segment. Mitigating this is superb Subaru off-road capability alongside premium features.