Jeep made headlines when the company announced its plan to release an electric version of its iconic Wrangler. The plug-in model will start production in 2020, and here’s what we know about it so far.
Powertrain
Although the full details haven’t been released, it is likely that the electric Wrangler will include a similar engine to what you can find in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. That minivan contains a specially-tuned 3.6-liter V-6 paired with a two-motor hybrid system that delivers power to the front wheels. Jeep representatives did mention the plan to release a plug-in version of the Wrangler at some point, which would likely have an engine mounted longitudinally to maintain the four-wheel drive. After all, it wouldn’t be a Wrangler if you couldn’t take it off-roading.
This news raises another question: where will Jeep place the battery pack? With multiple important systems and components at work during off-roading sessions, the space available to mount an electric, rechargeable battery back could be limited. We don’t know full details about the design or planned placement of these items, but Jeep should release additional information as the designers perfect the plan.
Change Represents Major Evolution
The Jeep Wrangler hasn’t changed much over the years, so the idea that the SUV manufacturer will release an electric version made shockwaves in the automotive industry. The Wrangler has led the pack for years when it comes to off-roading capabilities for outdoor enthusiasts, even though it didn’t have the high-end comfort or convenience features that many buyers wanted. Additionally, the previous models have been less fuel efficient than other SUVs on the market.
With the addition of an electric Wrangler to the Jeep family, weekend warriors don’t have to sacrifice efficiency when handling rough terrain. It is highly unlikely that Jeep will make drastic changes to the overall functionality of this model, especially considering that it’s one of the only models in the segment that can truly handle any terrain. Instead, the company is moving forward with what buyers want: a more efficient and eco-friendly version of their favorite off-road vehicle. Jeep officials also mentioned one major benefit of an electric vehicle: instant torque, which will come in handy on this model.
Additional Changes Coming
Along with the announcement about the electric Wrangler, Jeep representatives released a few other exciting details at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2017. These announcements included the plan to release a diesel-powered Wrangler, which could return up to 30 mpg combined, as well as changes to the redesigned 2018 Wrangler.
For 2018, the new model weighs about 200 pounds less than the outgoing Wrangler, helping to improve its efficiency, and it has an eight-speed automatic transmission. Other changes include improved aerodynamics and a few interior upgrades, making the Wrangler more comfortable.
Although the electric Wrangler won’t be available for several more years, rest assured that it’s in the works. Jeep designers are working to make it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts who want a better off-roading vehicle.
“Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Electric EV Side Right” by Michael Dorausch is licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0
Connect with us
