The legendary Jeep Wrangler may not be getting an electric version anytime soon, but the company is planning to introduce a new EV (electric) off-road vehicle.
Inspired by the Wrangler, Jeep's new electric SUV is designed for adventure enthusiasts, offering full capability and reliability.
See also: Jeep Wagoneer S VS Tesla Model Y – Who will win? Watch the teaser
“We shouldn’t forget what Jeep stands for. The Wrangler is the model that established us over 80 years ago and it’s still one of the core models,” Bill Peffer, head of Jeep Brand North America, told The Drive. Jeep seems to be protecting that, according to Peffer.
The head of the Jeep brand said that by maintaining the Wrangler DNA, “we are protecting our core.” He added that there are “a lot of loyal fans who drive the Wrangler.”.
Still, electrification has really helped the brand. The hybrid SUV is “the leading PHEV on the market,” Peffer said. Jeep has teased an electric Wrangler in the past, even building prototypes, like last year’s 650-horsepower Magneto 3.0.
When will Jeep release an electric Wrangler EV?
Jeep has proven that it can build a fully electric Wrangler that stays true to its rugged roots, but the brand has no plans to bring it to market just yet.
After unveiling the world's first electric vehicle (EV), the Wagoneer S, last week, Jeep is planning its next move with a more rugged EV model.
Last year, Jeep unveiled the all-electric Recon as part of its global EV strategy. Inspired by the legendary spirit of the Wrangler, the Recon combines the best of its 4×4 models with zero emissions.
Former Jeep brand chief Jim Morrison said the all-new, all-electric Jeep Recon has the capability to traverse the mighty Rubicon Trail, one of the most challenging off-road trails in the U.S. In addition, Morrison said the Recon can complete the route and have enough range to return to the city for a recharge.
Can Jeep's Recon live up to the Wrangler?
The Jeep Recon is expected to feature Wrangler-like features like removable doors and windows. It will also include Jeep's Selec-Terrain traction management system, off-road tires, tow hooks, and travel guides.
Last year, we got a first glimpse of what the Jeep Recon Moab EV would look like when images leaked at a dealership event. At first glance, the Recon's design resembles the Renegade more than the Wrangler. However, that was over a year ago.
Read more: Trade in your old vehicle to get a discount on Rivian's R1
The Jeep Recon will be based on the STLA Large platform, the same one that underpins the Wagoneer S. This platform offers battery options from 85 to 118 kWh, with a range of up to 500 miles (800 km). These specs apply to sedans, as the Wagoneer S offers a range of “over 300 miles” and produces 600 horsepower.
Under the Stellantis UAW agreements from November, Jeep plans to launch a fully electric Wrangler. However, that is not expected to happen before 2028.
Source: electrek
