Jeep Wrangler Magneto EV concept for Easter Jeep Safari 2021

 
Every year, Jeep makes a big "to do" about their concept vehicles that they prepare for the Easter Jeep Safari that is usually held in Moab Utah. All safe distancing aside, these special Jeeps underscore what can be done with Jeep vehicles using the options catalog and Mopar parts. While seven vehicles were created, this year I'm focusing on the one EV in the pack, the Jeep Wrangler Magneto. The Magneto (a Wrangler Rubicon two-door) utilizes the charging port from the Wrangler 4Xe Plug-in Hybrid (which should at your local dealer now) and uses an electric motor that mimics the performance of the standard Pentastar V6 (285 hp, 273 lb/ft. of torque). That power is sent to the wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. Four lithium-ion battery packs with a combined power of 70 kW/h, running an 800-volt system are distributed around the Wrangler to balance weight on the four wheels. The Magneto concept runs from 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds. I would have expected more power, but production is a long way off (if ever). Nice touches include a 12-volt battery that powers existing systems, such as the radio and lighting. A second 12-volt battery serves as an auxiliary power unit (APU) for accessories, such as the winch. A DC-to-DC converter charges both 12-volt batteries, allowing long-term operation of accessories to power a campsite or an unexpectedly long winch operation. Unique mounts secure the battery packs for harsh driving and custom skid plates protect the packs from potential strikes to the undercarriage while traversing harsh terrain. A 10-kw high-voltage heater keeps the fully open-air passenger compartment comfortable. The Magneto also dips into the Mopar catalog for a JPP 2-inch lift kit, 17-inch Lights Out black metallic wheels with 35-inch mud-terrain tires, a custom roll cage, Mopar Rock Rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, and a steel belly pan for added off-road capability. Add to that black leather seating and the special interior blue accents and you've got yourself a Magneto. I could see a few of these in urban and rural driveways especially if Jeep follows (or joins) Rivian's lead to create an off-the-road charging system. I'll add video if it becomes available.

Source: Jeep - Media information, pics

Jeep Wrangler gets new 4xe PHEV model

Now this makes sense. Jeep has applied it's 4xe tech to the Wrangler to compete against the new Ford Bronco (which has zero electrification so far) and also to improve efficiency. Jeep expects an EPA rating of 50+ mpge (miles per gallon equivalent) for the new Wrangler 4xe. Jeep basically utilizes a 2-0-liter four that gets mated to the hybrid drivetrain that has been sealed and made waterproof fitting the vehicle's potential use. The combined system makes 375 hp (giddy up) and can be chosen to run in electric only, hybrid, and U-save which uses the engine first to save the batteries. The plug is in the large(ish) black box in front of the driver's door mirror. If you like Wranglers, then this is a reason to celebrate the additional off-road miles this Wrangler model can provide you. If you're an asphalt warrior, then join in the increased-efficiency celebration. The Wrangler stopped being a bare-bones, basic off-roader years ago so Jeep has provided all the technology and features you'd expect at the expected price point (Top of the range 4xe. base Wranglers start under $30k). While it may not be an EV, the Jeep Wranlger 4xe is a PHEV that makes perfect sense. Check with your dealer regarding availability (probably next year). Final details and numbers will be available closer to the model's intro.  Check out the Grand Wagoneer and Wrangler 4xe reveal video in a separate post.

Source: Jeep/FCA - pics and info