Tradition and High Tech: Electric Jeep
If you think of Jeep as an old-school brand of rugged, off-roading 4x4s, you’re only partially right. In the last couple of years, Jeep has made incredible strides towards greening its vehicle lineup, introducing plug-in hybrid versions of its popular Wrangler and Grand Cherokee models. Offering impressive electric driving range while giving up none of the off-road ability that Jeep is known for, they’re strong sellers. In fact, the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid was actually the best-selling plug-in hybrid in the U.S. last year.
There is a lot more to come from Jeep in 2023. In fact, this year, the company will introduce its first all-electric models for sale to American customers, with the first deliveries of those vehicles likely in early 2024. The first, an all-electric Wagoneer, will be pitched at high-end luxury customers, while the second, a new compact off-roader called the Recon, is designed for rugged outdoor adventures. Here’s what we know so far.
Wagoneer S BEV
The Wagoneer, Jeep’s largest and most spacious SUV, will gain an all-new, fully-electric version in 2023. Code-named Wagoneer S, the new EV SUV will not look like the other, boxier members of the Wagoneer family, and will instead have a sleek, aerodynamic design. Initial renderings show an exterior with an LED-lit grille and a full-width rear light bar. While aerodynamic efficiency is the name of the game, the upright Wagoneer side view is still in evidence.
Jeep says this new, all-electric SUV will be offered around the world, and exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle. The company is targeting a range of 400 miles on a full charge, as well as 600 hp and a 0-60 mph time of about 3.5 seconds. 4x4 capability will come as standard, backed up by electronically-controlled all-terrain management as well as a bevy of new technologies and impressive performance.
The all-new Wagoneer BEV will be unveiled to the public this year, and Jeep says that production will start in 2024 – in North America. Customers in the U.S. will be able to reserve the all-electric Wagoneer in early 2023.
Adventure-Bound: Jeep Recon
Designed from the ground up to be both “100% Jeep” and 100% zero-emissions, the new compact Jeep Recon is positioned as an off-road adventurer for owners who love exploring the great outdoors. All-electric power, combined with a rugged vehicle package, will add a whole new dimension to exploration: near-silent operation, allowing for a closer connection to nature.
As you would expect from an off-road-focused Jeep, the Recon will be available with a number of impressive off-roading technologies. A new Selec-Terrain traction management system will provide unprecedented control of the amount of power going to each of its wheels, while an e-locker axle will make short work of the toughest obstacles. The Recon will also be “Trail Rated” like the most capable Jeeps; its under-body will carry protection from trail hazards as well as tow hooks and aggressive off-road tires. Indeed, Jeep says that this new electric SUV will have the ability to cross the Rubicon Trail – one of the most challenging off-road obstacles in the U.S. – and will be able to do so with enough range to drive back to town to recharge.
In true Jeep tradition, the electric Recon will offer open-air freedom, thanks to a power top that can open with the touch of a button. It will also have removable doors and glass. Inside, the latest-generation Uconnect infotainment system will not only provide excellent smartphone connectivity, but also detailed travel guides of the most notable off-road trails in the country.
Customer reservations for the new Jeep Recon will begin in early 2023, with the first production vehicles being delivered in 2024.
Find Your Next Electrifying Jeep
While Jeep is about as American a brand as there is, it’s also a very successful brand around the world – and legislation in many countries is pushing global manufacturers towards zero-emissions. Indeed, Jeep has already launched an all-electric “city SUV” called the Avenger in Europe.
We’re impressed by how quickly Jeep has adapted its product lines to fit the changing needs of markets around the world. The success of Jeep’s plug-in hybrid models in America show that consumers are happy to embrace a more sustainable solution, so long as they don’t have to give up the looks and capability they associate with the brand. The luxurious new electric Wagoneer and the rugged Recon are exciting developments in the brand’s long history.
