Jeep Wrangler EV Concept
(Concept Debut)
Simply put, the Jeep EV will run on full electric power up to 40 miles, then act something like a hybrid after that, where the generator produces power directly to the electric motor as needed. Any extra energy during braking or off-throttle situations will be routed into the batteries. The gasoline tank (which can also hold E85 fuel) will allow the vehicle to travel, depending on the types of loads and environmental conditions, an extra 400 miles or so. In addition, because of the capabilities of the on-board dual-voltage generator, the Jeep EV can have a 15-amp 110/120 volt outlet as well as a household 30-amp 220/240-volt power outlet. Very cool if you want to bring your big and little appliances on the trail. We were told the added weight of the system is only about 100 lb because of the smallish size of the new engine (whose source they wouldn't name), probably in the 1.3L to 1.8L I-4 range. The tech guys said the Jeep would likely do a 0-to-60 mph in about 9.0 sec, with a quarter-mile time in the 16.5-sec, 90-mph range. After our drive, it appears those numbers might be a little pessimistic.
Click here to read our First Test review of the Jeep Wrangler EV!
The Below is from a Chrysler Press Release:
Jeep Wrangler EV
The Jeep EV development vehicle is a Range-extended Electric Vehicle that provides a glimpse into the future of a "Go Anywhere, Do Anything" vehicle with renowned Jeep Wrangler capability.
The Jeep EV combines Wrangler's unmatched off-road capability with the ultimate "Tread Lightly" mindset by providing nature ambassadors with the ability to roam the planet and take care of it at the same time.
The Jeep EV Range-extended Electric Vehicle uses an electric motor, an advanced lithium-ion battery system, and a small gasoline engine with an integrated electric generator to produce additional energy to power the electric-drive system when needed. The 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor generates 400 N*m (295 lb.-ft.) of torque. With approximately eight gallons of gasoline, the Jeep EV has a range of 400 miles, including 40 miles of zero fuel-consumption, zero-emissions, all-electric operation.
"We are also exploring four-wheel-drive, in-wheel electric motors to demonstrate the full reach of ENVI's advanced electric-drive technologies," said Rhodes.
The instant high torque of the electric-drive motor and the ability to precisely control each wheel independently results in off-road capability ideally suited for the Jeep brand, without compromising on-road driving capability.
Source: Chrysler LLC