Jeep readies plug-in hybrid Wrangler
BY TUNG NGUYEN | 20th Aug 2018
FIAT Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is readying its first Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid off-roader in 2020 with its Toldeo Machining plant in Ohio, US, retooling for production of the Power Electronics module.
According to FCA, the Power Electronics module will house the power inverter and integrated dual charger for the electrified Wrangler, positioned under the vehicle between the exhaust and propshaft.
Toledo Machining will assemble the Power Electronics module before delivery to the Toledo Assembly Complex where the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) Wrangler will commence.
Jeep’s electrification plan was revealed in early June, with then FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne detailing plans to bring plug-in variants to each of the brand’s SUVs by 2021, but FCA Australia is still yet to confirm whether these alternative powertrains are on the table for the local market.
Based on the fourth-generation JL Wrangler due for an Australian on-sale date in 2019, no other details such as battery capacity, emissions-free driving range and recharge time of the PHEV version – or any other plug-in Jeep – are currently known.
Jeep’s new Wrangler is expected to land in Australia with a carryover Pentastar V6 petrol engine paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission, while other powertrains – including a 2.0-litre petrol and bent-six diesel remain off the table for local-market consumption.
The existing 2.8-litre CRD turbo-diesel will also be likely replaced by a 2.2-litre unit, but engine outputs are still unknown.
FCA North America head of manufacturing Brian Harlow said the Toledo Machining plant has risen to the challenge of executing an electrified Wrangler.
“The insourcing of this highly advanced work to Toledo Machining is a reflection of the commitment the workforce has made to improving their processes through the implementation of world class manufacturing,” he said.
“As the most iconic of the Jeep nameplates, it is critical that we flawlessly execute the launch of the Wrangler PHEV.
“The Toledo Machining employees have made a strong business case as to why we should put our faith in them to deliver a great product.”
With Wrangler the first model set for electrification, the remaining nameplates including Renegade, Cherokee, Compass and Grand Cherokee could make use of the same technology.
