Jeep Shows Off Plug-In Models and Retro Wranglers in Geneva
Electrification is on its way to the Jeep brand, with plug-in versions of both the Renegade and Compass appearing at the Geneva International Motor Show in Switzerland.
It seems that after selling nearly a million units in 2018, the most they’ve moved in the brand’s history, Jeep is ready to chart a course towards the future without leaving behind its core identity.
In the spotlight at the Jeep stand in Geneva, new plug-in hybrid models of the Compass and Renegade were shown. Equipped with batteries that are rechargeable from an external power outlet, they’re able to store enough electric energy to allow a pure electric range of about 30 miles. That is in addition to the distance it can travel on its gasoline-powered engine, so place those range-anxiety fears to one side.
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Jeep fans know that the Renegade and Compass are similar chocolate bars in two different wrappers, so it won’t surprise anyone reading these virtual pages that these plug-in versions share a common powertrain. The electric propulsion works in synergy with a 1.3L turbocharged gasoline-powered engine, combining together to make up to 240 horsepower. Given the proclivity of electrically powered machines to provide gobs of torque just off idle speed, these two little utes should provide plenty of shove around town.
They’re Jeeps, so it’s worth talking about the all-wheel-drive system built for this application. Thanks to new electric all-wheel-drive technology that the company is calling eAWD, traction to the rear axle is provided through a dedicated electric motor and not via a prop shaft. This allows the two axles to be separated and to control the torque independently in a more effective way than a mechanical system. It’s great for hybrid propulsion and gas savings, but we look forward to seeing for ourselves how it works off-road.
Also at the Jeep booth in Geneva are several machines that seemingly said ‘yes’ to the entire Mopar aftermarket catalog. A natty Wrangler Rubicon 1941 looks great fitted with a 2-inch lift kit and snorkel, along with a neat color combination and matte black accents. Note that it is powered by a 2.2L diesel engine.
Elsewhere on the stand, a Wrangler Sahara painted Ocean Blue is meant to appeal to city dwellers with its chrome accessories. Finally, a Renegade Bikini sounds like big fun until you realize it refers to a livery which is only meant for the Jeep.
Pay attention, kids: while these are European introductions, they give a pretty good road map for machines we might see on this side of the pond later this year.
ALSO SEE: Jeep Renegade vs Compass: Which Jeep is Right for You?
This article originally appeared on Off-Road.com
Living in rural Canada, Matthew has immersed himself in car culture for over 30 years and relishes the thought of a good road trip. A certified gearhead, he enjoys sharing his excitement about cars and is very pleased to contribute at AutoGuide. Matthew is a member of Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).
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