Jeep unveils 'greenest' Wrangler

MANILA: Yesterday, the Jeep brand revealed its new Wrangler 4xe, which marks the arrival of the most eco-friendly, technically innovative, and capable Wrangler ever.

The Jeep Compass 4xe and Renegade 4xe models, which were launched in 2019 in Geneva, started arriving in Europe this summer.

The new Jeep 4xe models were rolled out after the launch of the Jeep Grand Commander plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in China last year.

The plug-in hybrid powertrain of the Wrangler 4xe can go for up to 40kms of almost-silent, zero-emission, electric-only propulsion, which allows it to be friendly for commuters.

Jeep will provide electrification alternatives on every nameplate in the succeeding years as it perseveres to become the leading vehicle in terms of eco-friendly premium technology.

Electrified Jeep vehicles will also have the 4xe logo. A Jeep electric vehicle endeavors to be the most reliable and efficient vehicle ever, as it takes driver confidence, 4x4 capability, and performance to a higher level.

The advanced powertrain of the Wrangler 4xe offers an exceptional on- and off-road experience through the merging of a high-tech 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, a high-voltage battery pack, two electric motors, and a strong TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.

The most innovative powertrain developed for a Jeep Wrangler optimizes efficiency with nearly 21km per liter equivalent while abolishing range anxiety and bringing pure-electric operation for daily travel.

Torque from the electric motors in the hybrid powertrain of the Wrangler 4xe comes automatically upon demand from the driver.

The powertrain also generates a smooth and fuel-efficient start-stop operation of the engine. The engine itself generates 637Nm of torque and 375hp.

Jeep has showcased 4x4 capability leadership for about 80 years. Jeep vehicles were the first to introduce an instantaneous full-time four-wheel-drive system, the first electric front sway-bar disconnect system, and the first 4:1 transfer case.

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe driver can personalize the hybrid powertrain to suit every road trip, whether it entails a quiet exploration of nature off-road, a night in town, or fulfilling the needs of daily commuters in completely electric operation.

The Wrangler 4xe hybrid powertrain also involves three operational modes, referred to as E-Selec.

These modes include Hybrid (the default mode that combines torque from the 2.0-liter engine and the electric motor), Electric (wherein the powertrain functions on zero-emission electric power only until the battery attains minimum charge or when the driver asks for more torque), and eSave (which emphasizes propulsion from the 2.0-liter engine and saves the battery charge for future use).

To aid in the optimization of the advantages of the E-Selec modes, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe driver information display as well as the Uconnect touchscreen also include Eco Coaching Pages.

The Eco Coaching Pages allow owners to keep track of power flow and record the effect of regenerative braking, monitor their driving history with detail on gasoline and electric consumption, and schedule charging times to benefit from lower electric rates.

The Wrangler 4xe features specialized exterior design cues to indicate environmentally-friendly, efficient, electrification technology. Other components of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe include LED off-road lights and rock rails, off-road bumpers, and beadlock-capable wheels.

Jeep Wrangler 4xe models will be rolled out in US, China, and Europe by early 2021. It will be sold with electric vehicle (EV) charge port plugs custom-made depending on certain regions. The vehicle is also assembled at the Toledo Assembly Complex of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) in Toledo, Ohio.

Photos from Jeep

Also read: New Jeep Renegade 4xe embraces plug-in hybrid technology