The Japanese Origin of Subaru and Its Starry Legacy
Subaru is more than just a car brand; it carries a rich astronomical and cultural heritage. The name Subaru is derived from the Japanese term for the Pleiades star cluster, which is also known as the 'Seven Sisters' due to the naked eye seeing seven bright stars in the cluster. This connection is encapsulated in the iconic Subaru emblem, which features the six (now five) stars of the Pleiades.
Understanding the Meaning and Origins
The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is a star cluster in the constellation Taurus. In ancient Greek mythology, this cluster was named for the six daughters of the titan Atlas and the sea-nymph Pleione: Alcyone, Asterope, Celaeno, Electra, Maia, Merope, and Taygete. However, the modern naked eye can discern only six of these stars.
Back in the early 1950s, then known as Fuji Heavy Industries, the decision was made to use the name Subaru for their new line of automobiles. This name was a nod to the cluster, representing the joining of five former Nakajima Airplane Group companies. The six (now five) star logo, often mistaken for the seven stars, symbolizes this merger.
The Evolution of the Logo
It's not uncommon for logo design to evolve over time. Initially, the Subaru emblem featured six stars, each representing a constituent company of the merged group. However, the logo was recently updated to reflect a more modern image, yet the core meaning remains. Despite the apparent change, the stars in the logo continue to symbolize the unity and legacy of Subaru's heritage.
Interestingly, the logo design still raises some questions among the brand's loyal customers. Some individuals, like myself, can't help but notice the discrepancy. Traditionally, the Pleiades cluster is made up of seven stars, but the logo now only displays five or six. This subtle difference in representation is a testament to the brand's evolving identity while staying true to its cultural and astronomical roots.
Company Evolution and Brand Redefinition
As the company evolved, so did its name and logo. In 2017, Subaru Corporation renamed itself to reflect a broader business scope beyond just vehicle manufacturing. This name change was in line with the expansion of the company into other fields. Still, the starry emblem remains a key element of the brand's identity, a reminder of its roots and the values it represents.
The first Subaru cars were built following the company's formation in the late 1950s. The name Subaru and the star logo became synonymous with reliability and innovation, qualities that have stood the test of time. Even today, the brand continues to manufacture cars and other products under this iconic name, which has become deeply ingrained in popular culture.
In conclusion, the name Subaru and its star logo tell a story of cultural heritage, scientific discovery, and corporate evolution. This blend of ancient mythology and modern design makes the brand a unique and intriguing part of the automotive world.