Subaru Corp. will introduce a series of all-electric cars in Japan as early as 2021, sources said, as competition intensifies between automakers looking to develop eco-friendly cars in response to stricter global emissions regulations.

The carmaker will initially focus on releasing electric versions of its established gasoline-powered models — like the Legacy Outback, Forester sport utility vehicle and Impreza — in order to attract existing customers and brand enthusiasts.

The electric vehicles will likely be manufactured at its plant in Gunma Prefecture, the sources said.