Mar 23, 2021 - Energy & Environment

Jeep unveils a prototype electric Wrangler concept

Photo of a Jeep Wrangler Magneto.

Jeep Wrangler Magneto concept. Courtesy of Jeep

That image above is the Jeep Wrangler "Magneto," an electric concept Jeep's calling a "stealthy, quiet, quick and an unmistakable rock-climbing force."

The details: 285 horsepower and the concept vehicle can go from 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds, Jeep said.

  • It did not offer a mileage range for the vehicle powered by four lithium-ion battery packs.
  • Magneto includes a six-speed manual transmission, which is rare in EVs but might appeal to enthusiasts.
  • The concept is one of the vehicles Jeep is showing off at the upcoming Jeep Safari event in Moab.

What they're saying: "Jeep executives have said every Jeep will offer some form of electrification going forward, but it has not confirmed an all-electric version of the Wrangler," CNBC notes.

  • Via The Detroit News, Jeep design studio head Mark Allen said they plan to test out the vehicle in coming years.
  • "Would it be done like this in production? No, it would be done a different way, but I wanted to get the feeling of a full battery electric," he said.

Why it matters: Automakers are looking to recreation-minded customers.

  • For instance, Rivian is touting planned charging stations near parks for the SUV and pickup they're building.
  • GM, meanwhile, has an all-electric Hummer and plans to provide details early next month.
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