Jeep today introduced its new Wrangler 4xe (pronounced 4byE), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that will be equipped with a 17 kWh battery and will deliver up to 25 miles of fully electric driving and an estimated overall fuel efficiency of 50 MPGe (which is calculated by combining the electric and gasoline capabilities). The Wrangler 4xe will be available in three models: 4xe, Sahara 4xe and Rubicon 4xe. “Electric Blue” coloring is featured in the 4xe lineup, as illustrated by the tow hooks shown above.
Although the Wrangler 4xe isn’t fully electric, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s National Household Travel Study, all types of trips in the U.S. average less than the Wrangler’s 25 electric mile range. Many, in fact, average less than half of 25 miles, meaning that even a round-trip in the Wrangler 4xe can be achieved with little to no gasoline. And when drivers take advantage of workplace and convenience level 2 charging at retail locations, nearly all daily driving needs can be achieved solely with electricity.
Graph displaying average commute distances in the U.S.
Similar to some other electrified vehicles, drivers will be able to select various driving modes sothey can maximize the electric driving range. Specifically, drivers can select from the following powertrain modes:
- Hybrid: The default mode blends torque from the 2.0-liter engine and electric motor. In this mode, the powertrain will use battery power first, then add in propulsion from the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 when the battery reaches minimum state of charge.
- Electric: The powertrain operates on zero-emission electric power only until the battery reaches the minimum charge or the driver requests more torque (such as wide-open throttle), which engages the 2.0-liter engine.
- eSave: Prioritizes propulsion from the 2.0-liter engine, saving the battery charge for later use, such as EV off-roading or urban areas where internal combustion propulsion is restricted. The driver can also choose between Battery Save and Battery Charge during eSave.
Regardless of the driving mode selected, the Wrangler 4xe operates as hybrid once the battery nears its minimum state of charge. Regenerative braking is a key part of the Wrangler 4xe eco-friendly equation. When the driver steps on the brake pedal, the powertrain control engages the maximum available regenerative braking, up to 0.25 g, from the electric motors to slow the vehicle, augmented with the Wrangler’s traditional friction brakes. The Wrangler 4xe also features the ability to maximize regenerative energy production via a driver-selectable Max Regen feature.
More electrified Jeeps are in the pipeline
The Wrangler 4xe will be sold globally, and it will be Jeep’s first plug-in vehicle offered in the United States. Because plug types vary by country, the Wrangler’s charging port tailored for each market. The U.S. edition will be J1772, which is commonly referred to as “Level 2.” The Wrangler 4xe follows the Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe, both of which went on sale in Europe this summer, and the Grand Commander PHEV, which entered China last year. Jeep plans to offer electrified options on all of its nameplates over the next few years, and each will carry the 4xe badge.
Our Jeep 4xe vehicles will be the most efficient, responsible and capable that the brand has ever created. We are committed to make Jeep the greenest SUV brand. The electrification of the Jeep lineup will allow commuters to travel solely on electric power, delivering an efficient and fun on-road experience and offering an ability to enjoy even more Jeep capability off-road in nearly complete silence.
CHRISTIAN MEUNIER, GLOBAL PRESIDENT OF THE JEEP BRAND FOR FCA
All high-voltage electronics, including the wiring between the battery pack and the electric motors, are sealed and waterproof. As with all other Jeeps, the Wrangler 4xe is “Trail Rated” and possesses solid front and rear axles, full-time 4×4 two-speed transfer case, fully articulating suspension, and 30 inches of water fording capability. It will be available in Europe, China, and the U.S. by early 2021
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