Jeep will add an all-new plug-in hybrid variant to the Wrangler’s engine line-up in 2020. This was confirmed by the Jeep’s head Mike Manley at the ongoing Los Angeles Motor Show. The plug-in hybrid variant will be in addition to the 2018 Wrangler’s new engine line up which includes, two petrols, including a mild-hybrid and two diesels, respectively.
Speaking at the Wrangler’s launch event, Mike Manley said, “Jeep believes that electrification in the future is inevitable and this will not only future-proof our products but also give us an opportunity to push our capability message with significant improvements in fuel economy, reduction in carbon dioxide emissions along with added capability.”
Jeep has not divulged any specifications about its powertrain, yet; but being a plug-in hybrid, it will get propulsion from the engine, the electric motor or a combination of both. The battery-pack will be able to be charged via either a plug-in socket or the engine, or both. The only other plug-in hybrid model currently in the Fiat Chrysler Automobile’s American line-up is the Chrysler Pacifica minivan, which gets a 16kWh-battery and an EPA-rated electric-only range of 53km.
When asked whether the brand’s new hybrid technology would make it to India anytime soon, Mike Manley remained non-committal, saying “India has historically been a slow adopter of newer technology because of its diverse market. However, there also been a part of the market that has embraced on the highest and newest technology. So, as we roll-out new global models with new technology, we will time their launch to when it's most suitable; to the market ready to accept it.”