Recently, Jeep has disclosed new all-electric versions of its iconic Wrangler SUV. However, the consumer needs to wait for few years for purchasing one.
On Monday, the brand debuted the Wrangler “Magneto” as a concept vehicle which means it is a custom product that is typically built by automakers to gauge consumer interest or you can say some of the future direction of a vehicle or brand.
During the media event, Jim Morrison, vice president of the Jeep brand in North America, “It’s sustainable, stealthy, rock-climbing force.”
“It’s a zero-emissions concept vehicle with Jeep 4X4 capability taken to the next level.”
Moreover, the Jeep executives have mentioned that Jeep will offer some kind of electrification by going forward. On the other hand, the all-electrician version of the Wrangler is not yet confirmed. Recently, the company has started selling out a plug-in hybrid electric version of the Wrangler under a new “4xe” moniker, which is a play on the brand’s off-road reputation which is combined with electrification. Plug-in hybrid electric models consist of batteries like EVs and also have a traditional internal combustion engine.
Basically, the Jeep Wrangler Magneto concept comprises off two-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. For making it an EV, engineers have now swapped out its internal combustion engine along with some parts for electric components like four batteries and an e-motor.
Further, the vehicle is now capable of almost 273 foot-pounds of torque and 285 horsepower. The Magneto almost runs 0-60mph in 6.8 seconds. However, the company didn’t release the electric range of the vehicle.
Notably, the most distinctive part about the Magento is that it has a six-speed manual transmission which the electrical vehicle is not required because of their motors. Mark Allen, head of Jeep design, said that the vehicle “has the best characteristics” for automatic transmission because of the “direct-drive feel” of a manual transmission that is a key draw for off-road enthusiasts.
Alongside many other custom or concept vehicles, Magneto was revealed for the Jeep Easter Safari in an annual off-road event for the brand in Moab, Utah. Even the Jeep regularly makes use of vehicles as well as the method to measure consumer interest in innovative products.
“The Moab Easter Jeep Safari has been a great tradition for more than half a century,” Morrison said. “It’s a place where we get to connect with our most die-hard off-road enthusiasts and the ones who are most loyal to our brand.”