Jeep's first global EV announced, set to join Avenger in UK market later this year
The Jeep® brand is charging into the electrified SUV segment with the reveal of its first global battery-electric vehicle (BEV) – the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition (US only). The all-new, all-electric 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S will launch first in the U.S. and Canada in the second half of 2024 and later be available in markets around the world. The Jeep Wagoneer S is offered exclusively as a BEV with a range of more than 300 miles on a single charge, delivering 600 horsepower, lightning-quick 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.4 seconds and more than 800 Nm of instant torque. This 0-60 time overshadows the 707hp Hellcat powered Trackhawk from a standing start. Impressive performance credentials paired with the Jeep brand-exclusive Selec-Terrain traction management system, Jeep Wagoneer S instils driving confidence and traction for all weather and road conditions and offering a range set to be over 300miles (this data refers to US spec and US cycle only).
“The launch of the all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S marks a new chapter in the storied history of the Jeep brand,” said Antonio Filosa, Jeep brand CEO. “Building upon nearly a century of innovation and design, this first global EV will introduce a whole new generation of owners to an experience that is distinctly Jeep and 100% electric in every way. With new energy in the Jeep vehicle lineup, ranging from EV to V-8, customers have never had more freedom to choose their own adventure.”
Stellantis-designed electric drive modules (EDMs) independently power the front and rear wheels for instant torque response, while the Jeep brand-exclusive Selec-Terrain traction management system features five distinct driving modes: Auto, Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand. The Jeep Wagoneer S’s 3-in-1 EDMs combine the electric motor, gearing and power electronics into a single, compact unit that is both powerful and efficient. The front EDM is equipped with wheel disconnects to reduce energy draw when cruising and to help optimize range. The use of new technologies and techniques played a crucial role in the overall development of the Jeep Wagoneer S. To improve the driving experience and reduce the overall noise and vibration levels to create a quiet interior cabin and a smooth ride, the Jeep engineering team improved body torsion stiffness by 35% over previous midsize-segment Jeep brand SUVs for superior ride, handling and effective response to driver input.
When it comes to an all-electric vehicle, aerodynamics is a crucial component to the overall design equation. Jeep brand designers and engineers set aggressive goals to reach optimal aerodynamic performance for maximum efficiency, range and performance while maintaining its sleek, premium appearance. By utilizing state-of-the-art tools and a rigorous testing and development process, including state-of-the-art wind tunnels, the team achieved a coefficient of drag (CD) of 0.29, which is the lowest CD ever for a Jeep vehicle and approximately 15% better than the average SUV.
Structurally, the roof and rear liftgate spoiler are angled to minimize wake size. The vehicle’s flush pocket door handles, rear wing and integrated fins help guide air flow around the vehicle and control the separation point at the rear. Additionally, an integrated system of underbody shields, three-dimensional shaped front tire spats and unique side-sill design all direct airflow smoothly around the tires and to the rear of the vehicle for minimum drag. All of which contribute to the Wagoneer S being the most aerodynamic Jeep brand SUV ever.
The use of recycled resources and materials were consciously integrated into the Jeep Wagoneer S. The seating, console, doors and instrument panel surfaces feature a non-leather synthetic material. Additional appointments include a premium microfiber suede headliner and premium carpets comprised of recycled pre- and post-consumer materials.
Aimed at the same market place as the Tesla Model Y, and other premium BEV SUV's, the Wagoneer S is set to arrive in the UK market late this year. But arrives in a market that is lagging behind the average growth in registrations in the UK, and the demand has dropped slightly in the SUV sector. With the Ford Explorer having just been launched, the Wagoneer will have to offer something special to break into the UK market.
