Jeep Wagoneer 3-row SUV will go electric too—with range-extender

Stellantis’ Jeep Wagoneer S electric SUV debut came with a commitment to expand its portfolio of electrified powertrains across its range by the end of the decade, it was announced Thursday. 

The lineup now will embrace extended-range plug-in hybrid variations of the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, which had been confirmed for the primary time, for “subsequent 12 months,” by Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa, in a Q&A with the press following the reveal. 

The range-extended Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer variants may be adopted in a future model of the Wagoneer S, pending confirmation, according to Filosa’s hint. The Wagoneer S is built on the STLA Giant platform, which was previously characterized as “BEV-native.” Yet, the company has indicated its readiness to accommodate internal combustion engines without sacrificing essential vehicle attributes.

Over the next 12 months, forthcoming Electrified Wagoneer variants will inherit the propulsion technology from the Ramcharger. This innovative system features an electric motor providing continuous power to the wheels, decoupling the engine’s mechanical connection and instead relying solely on electrical energy transmission to the wheels. Prior to its electrified iterations, the iconic body-on-frame Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer were powered by a robust twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering either 420 horsepower or 510 horsepower. The EPA reports gas mileage ratings for various models, ranging from approximately 17 to 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in mixed driving conditions. Compared to the Wagoneer S EV, they’re significantly larger in stature.

Filosa further emphasized that the various Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models will maintain their signature three-row configuration, in contrast to the battery-electric Wagoneer S EV, which will not be offered with a third row.

Baskin-Robbins strategy to electrified Jeeps

As Tesla’s scarcity of configuration options appears poised for a dramatic reversal, Jeep is preparing to offer a diverse array of powertrain combinations, including multiple hybrid models, plug-in hybrids, fully electric vehicles, and even range-extended plug-in hybrids. There are numerous high-quality automobile models that largely converge in terms of technological advancements. While seemingly an analogy to a “31 flavors” approach by Baskin-Robbins in regards to selecting an SUV, it’s possible that some buyers might be overwhelmed by the multitude of options available. 

“We will offer a comprehensive range of powertrains, including gasoline options,” emphasized Filosa, as he detailed each type.

For our organization, effective selection is paramount. “Merely juxtaposing battery-electric vehicles and internal combustion engines isn’t a viable strategy for our company,” stated Ned Curic, Stellantis’ chief technology officer. According to our discussions with Curic, Jeep has confirmed to Inexperienced Automotive Reviews that every model within their lineup will offer a range of electrified options, including internal combustion engine (ICE), plug-in hybrid, battery electric vehicle (BEV), and range-extended choices. However, they clarified that no single model will provide all four electrified powertrain options. 

Stellantis has developed the range-extended truck known as the Ram 1500 Ramcharger, which builds upon the Ram 1500 REV fully electric model by substituting it with a significantly smaller 92-kWh battery pack compared to the REV’s standard 140-kWh unit. With an estimated range of either 168 or 229 kilowatt-hours, the REV features a 27-gallon gasoline tank and a V-6 engine designed to operate primarily as a rolling generator when desired. The all-new RAM 8000 REV is set to debut this autumn of 2024, with the Ramcharger following approximately six months later, according to authoritative company officials.

Given the electric luxury sedan’s provenance, the Ramcharger could be a prime candidate for electrification as a plug-in hybrid utility vehicle with an extended-range battery pack. Honda’s hybrid vehicles, including its earlier collaboration with Chevrolet on the Volt, typically employ a series-hybrid configuration, which allows for seamless transition into a parallel mode at specific cruising speeds, enabled by an internal clutch mechanism. 

Ramcharging an electrified Jeep Wagoneer

The Wagoneer will receive a bespoke version of the Ramcharger’s advanced technology features. While the Wagoneer shares a common foundation with Ram’s other models, its siblings in the Ram 1500 REV and Ramcharger lines are built upon the distinct STLA Body platform. Despite initial reservations, executives have reaffirmed their commitment to adopt an identical approach as that of the Ramcharger, albeit with a significantly larger battery pack than typical plug-in hybrids. 

Jeep has traditionally offered a diverse range of off-road-capable models, including the successful plug-in hybrid variants like the Wrangler 4xe, which have garnered widespread popularity over the past few years. The diverse offerings could introduce an additional layer of inventory intricacy for vendors, necessitating a greater level of technical precision from customers. 

Despite being highly advanced, Curic wouldn’t presume to communicate with customers on such a sophisticated level. As he noted, you provide clients with options, allowing the market to dictate the outcome. “To meet the client’s demands, we offer tailored solutions: additional electric vehicles for those in need, and hybrid options to suit their requirements. A straightforward approach that prioritizes customer satisfaction.”

After all, it’s significantly more complex due to a diverse array of factors, including the EPA’s guidelines that will incentivize plug-in hybrids starting in 2027, the EV tax credit that will apply to PHEVs, range-extended plug-in hybrids, and even past EVs themselves; as well as tariff threats against China and anticipated isolationist trade policies from each major-party Presidential candidate. 

Vary-extended vs. PHEV: Which is the higher?

In a Q&A session with Inexperienced Automotive Reviews, Stellantis’ Curic clarified the types of Jeep models that will be offered as extended-range plug-in sequence hybrids versus parallel plug-in hybrids, revealing that off-road enthusiasts may derive the most benefit from this technology.

“The range-extended model excels for off-road enthusiasts, boasting increased power reserves, enhanced energy delivery, and amplified torque.” You can preserve the same driving dynamics regardless of whether you’re running solely on battery power or in hybrid mode with the engine engaged.

While the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are likely to be the most fashion-focused models in the lineup, far removed from rock-crawling capabilities, the Grand Cherokee 4xe and Wrangler 4xe rely on a traditional plug-in hybrid powertrain, which would mean a complex debut for this technology.

While Curic did not make a significant contribution, he highlighted the company’s adaptability. “We’ve successfully implemented measures to ensure the large-scale production of vehicles, allowing us to meet customer demand with ease.”

While all contingencies are being considered, Curic emphasized that one technology exception remains: fuel cells for Jeep models, which will be supplied by Stellantis’ various manufacturers on an organizational basis.