Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI) has begun rolling out a new global Subaru platform that will enhance safety and driving dynamics on a flexible platform that will enable electrified powertrains in future Subaru vehicles, the company announced.

The new platform achieves a center of gravity that's 5 mm lower for a more stable driving experience. The platform improves rigidity and will offer a much improved suspension system. Increased use of high-tensile steel improves impact energy absorption by 40% to enhance collision safety.

Body rigidity is improved at least 70%, while noise and vibration are reduced.

The new platform also gives Subaru a unified design concept that allows for future powertrain options to enable gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or battery-electric vehicles.

FHI is pairing the new platform with the next-generation 2017 Subaru Impreza that will reach the market later this year.