Jeep Hybrids Under Consideration
As emission standards get stricter, even Jeep is considering hybrid powertrains for its iconic SUVs.
The American automaker sees the benefits that electric motors can provide its SUVs, especially how the instant torque they offer can bolster Jeep’s appeal to off-roaders. The company is currently looking into ways on how it can integrate a hybrid powertrain to its models, specifically for four-wheel-drive applications.
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In a recent interview with Drive, Chrysler’s Asia-Pacific product planning manager, Steve Bartoli, elaborated on how Chrysler is looking into hybrid powertrains for its Jeep brand. Most importantly however, Jeep wants to make sure the vehicles can still “get you home,” meaning that the electric motors and range of battery packs can last in harsh conditions.
“These are very complex and expensive systems, not just for us to develop but also for the consumers,” said Bartoli. “Not only that, but range is a very important issue and we need to make sure how we can fit that into our systems because you don’t want to be stuck in a creek in an electric Jeep that is going nowhere.”
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[Source: Drive]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Hmmm, seems like toyota figured it out....Went on a 150 mile road trip in a hybrid Highlander...got 32 MPG. I am sure there are tradeoffs, but....it has been 10+ years since hybrid idea floating around, and from what I read, Jeep/Chrysler/Diamler/Fiat have given very little thought about making a hybrid. They are severely lagging in this technology, and I am concerned that if they decide to make one, they will just 'throw it together,' foist it on the public to work out the kinks for 3-4 years, have a lousy product, and if they decide to stick with it, may get it 'right' by 2020 (if they are around that long...)