Hi friend! Big news for Jeep fans – the legendary American SUV brand is gearing up to launch two new all-electric models by 2024. Dubbed the Jeep Recon EV and Jeep Wagoneer S EV, these capable and stylish rigs provide an intriguing glimpse into Jeep‘s battery-powered future.
As an auto expert, I‘m thrilled to walk through everything we know on these upcoming EVs. Buckle up!
Jeep Embraces the Electric Movement
While Wranglers and Cherokees cruising U.S. highways today likely pack potent gas V6 or diesel engines, Jeep sees the writing on the wall. Consumer interest and government regulations make electrification a reality every automaker must embrace.
Jeep‘s early efforts with their plug-in Wrangler 4xe hybrid paved the way. But the Recon and Wagoneer S represent full-on battery EV commitments – no gas motor or plug-in crutch included!
It‘s a bold step for a manufacturer wedded to rugged off-roading and open-air freedom, which electric powertrains historically struggled to enable.
But the technical capabilities and performance that Recon and Wagoneer showcase may convert even the most ardent V8 devotee. Let‘s examine why…
Jeep Recon EV: Electrifying an Off-Road Icon
As Jeep‘s first battery-electric interpretation of the legendary Wrangler, hopes and expectations for the Recon EV run high. After all, the Wrangler owns a special place in Jeep brand lore as its most popular and recognizable model at nearly 900k units sold since inception.
Luckily, early glimpses indicate the Recon EV captures its namesake‘s spirit – with some forward-thinking upgrades.
Rugged Styling Cues Remain
Like tracking Bigfoot, sightings of the Recon EV remain rare for now. But leaked images confirm squat, flared-out proportions akin to the Wrangler, finished with Jeep‘s trademark 7-slot grille.
Removable doors and a power-retractable soft top carry the open-air tradition into the electric age. And essential off-road ingredients like skid plates, tow hooks and all-terrain tires are happily present.
Yet smoother fender contours, a curved rear roofline and tapered front end optimize aerodynamics for efficiency. Form following function.
Inside, angular styling and waterproof surfaces signal this EV doesn‘t shy from mud or moisture. It‘s a tasteful blend of new and old.
| Specification | Jeep Recon (expected) | Jeep Wrangler |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 170-175 in | 188 in |
| Ground Clearance | 10+ in | 10+ in |
| Approach Angle | 35-45 deg | 44 deg |
| Departure Angle | 25-35 deg | 27-37 deg |
*Recon dimensions estimated based on renders and reported size class
Off-Road Chops Built In
Lest you worry a battery pack overwhelms off-road talent, Jeep engineered the Recon EV for trail readiness.
Exhibit A: 33-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch wheels supply ample traction and suspension travel, while abbreviated overhangs ensure generous departure and approach angles over obstacles.
Beefy axles employ electronically locking differentials able to redirect torque on-demand for superior traction in sand, mud and rocks. This tech activates automatically based on wheel sensors.
Finally, Jeep‘s excellent Selec-Terrain drive mode selector features across the 4xe plug-in lineup today. Expect it to help Recon drivers tune powertrain responsiveness, torque delivery and traction assist for everything from daily driving to crawling over boulders.
Add a little more ground clearance than even a lifted Wrangler enjoys and you‘ve got impressive flexibility. Enthusiasts anxiously await further specs.
Range and Charging: TBD
Two key areas still mostly unknown on the Recon regard driving range and charging rate. Unofficial estimates peg range around 250 miles based on battery size and footprint. But Jeep remains silent.
I expect the compact Recon will employ a battery between 60-80 kWh, judging by EVs of similar dimensions. For reference, that‘s on par with a Chevy Bolt or Volkswagen ID.4.
DC fast charging then likely falls between 125-150+ kW – enough to replenish ~180 miles of range in 30 minutes. But further testing is needed on Jeep‘s first in-house battery pack.
I anticipate a starting price around $45,000 when Recon deliveries begin, but options could quickly inflate the sticker. That seems reasonable next to gas Wranglers today that when similarly equipped crest $50,000.
Premium Power Meets Jeep Capability in the Wagoneer S
If the Recon EV moves Jeep‘s best-seller into the future, the Wagoneer S rockets 90 years ahead. A concept in name only, its otherworldly output and tech-laden design awe all who lay eyes upon it.
Let‘s examine what‘s in store from this 600 horsepower electric beast.
Performance First Styling
The Wagoneer S smooths signature Jeep contours for a windswept profile dictated by physics, not designer whims. A lowered ride height, rear wing and flush door handles cheat the wind to astonishing effect.
Even as a 5,000 lb, 3-row luxury SUV a claimed 3.5 second 0-60 mph sprint beggars belief. That smokes $100k-plus European super SUVs without breaking a sweat. Shut up and take my money!
Customers can expect to pay for such feats of engineering, of course. Figure six-digit sticker prices when deliveries start in 2024.
| Specification | Jeep Wagoneer S (claimed) | Audi e-tron Sportback | Rivian R1S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 600 hp | 402 hp | 800+ hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.5 sec | 5.5 sec | 3.0 sec |
| Battery Capacity | 100+ kWh | 95 kWh | 135 kWh |
| Range (est.) | 400 mi | 218 mi | 300+ mi |
*Best estimates based on released manufacturer data
Take note, Tesla -legacy automakers are gunning for your performance crown!
First-Class Cabin Treatment
For all its boundary-crushing speed, the Wagoneer S provides more than chassis wizardry. Inside you‘ll discover a cabin expertly balancing space for seven passengers against luxurious finishes.
Rear seats fold flat to reveal a spacious cargo bay (35-45 cubic feet expected). Fill it with camping gear or your week‘s Costco hauls – this sleek electric Jeep handles both in comfort.
Soak up miles gazing through the full-length glass roof as Uconnect 5 entertainment coddles passengers with every amenity. Wireless updates ensure your EV stays fresh for years too.
And did I mention quilted leather seats with heating, ventilation AND massaging functions? Oh baby. Roll over, Bentley – luxury rides electric now!
Ultra-Fast Charging, Tesla-Topping Range
Engineers gift the Wagoneer S with two critical attributes scarce among SUVs: a large battery (100+ kWh!) and 800V charging architecture compatible with bleeding-edge 350 kW DC fast chargers.
What does this technical jargon actually mean for customers, you ask? Simply world-beating 400+ miles of maximum driving range and 180+ miles of recharge in just 10 minutes.
That allows easy jaunts between cities and instant power boosts on road trips relative to any rival. Whereas most buyers today face range tradeoffs versus gas models, Wagoneer S adopters scarcely sacrifice freedom.
Perhaps most impressively, Wagoneer S seating capacity, cargo flexibility and tow ratings won‘t leave household chores behind either. This brawny EV celebrates the entire spectrum of capability Jeep has always provided.
More Electric Surprises In Store
The Wagoneer S and Recon EV steal headlines as Jeep‘s first bespoke battery models engineered from scratch. But they‘re joined by several more electrified Jeeps ramping up overseas.
A plug-in Wrangler remains available stateside for now. But curious Europeans can soon order the all-electric Avenger SUV promising 250 miles of range and 50 kWh of battery capacity in a compact package. Consider it a predictor of affordable US Jeeps to come.
Two more yet-unnamed BEVs also launch across the Atlantic by 2025. And get this – Jeep promises its entire European lineup turns fully electric before 2030!
It seems a brand staple in gas and diesel variants makes no exception in targeting robust EV growth. Exciting developments ahead for Jeep faithful everywhere.
I don‘t know about you, but I eagerly anticipate the off-road hijinks early Recon owners will certainly pioneer. And make no mistake – the Wagoneer S charts a new pinnacle of sustainability for full-size family haulers.
Well, that wraps my breakdown of these groundbreaking new Jeeps. Let me know if any other questions pop up on these awesome EVs!
