Jeep has unveiled the first images of its first electric SUV. It will be launched next year and should take over the eCMP platform of the Peugeot e-2008, DS 3 Crossback E-Tense and Opel Mokka-e, in particular.
The Stellantis group, born from the merger between PSA and FCA, is turning its strategy towards electricity. Thus, by 2030, 100% of its cars sold in Europe should be electric.
During the presentation of this plan, called Dare Forward 2030, Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, accompanied these announcements with a first glimpse of some of the group’s next electric models. Thus, the Ram 1500 BEV pick-up and especially the first electric model from Jeep were glimpsed. For the latter, two uncovered photos have even been published.
They show an SUV whose size seems close to the Renegade (4.24 m long), but with more modern lines. We notice in particular the front optics similar to those of the last restyled Compass and Grand Cherokee.
The grille with seven bars is retained, but it is now closed and embellished with an “e” recalling the engine of this model, whose name is not yet known.
The painted C-pillar and the contrasting roof recall the Compass, but also some rivals of this future model. Here, the rear door handles are integrated into the windows, like on a Nissan Juke.
Result of the merger with PSA
If the Jeep range is already electrified with hybrid and/or plug-in hybrid versions of each of its models, it will be the manufacturer’s first electric car.
This new model should take advantage of the merger of FCA with PSA to take over the French group’s eCMP platform. It should therefore be one of the first fruits of this merger.
The eCMP platform already equips many models from the brands of the former PSA group, including the Peugeot e-2008, DS 3 Crossback E-Tense and Opel Mokka-e city SUVs. These are tractions developing 100 kW (136 hp) and whose battery reaches a total capacity of 50 kWh (just over 46 useful kWh), for a combined WLTP range of just over 300 km.
In 2023, the Peugeot 208 will however benefit from a restyling and its electric version e-208 should introduce new features for the eCMP platform. We expect a new motor produced by the joint venture Nidec PSA emotors and a higher capacity battery, thanks to an improvement in its chemistry.
Jeep’s first electric model, which will be launched in the first half of 2023, could therefore inherit these new features. Without modification of the platform, it could be the first car from the manufacturer to offer only two-wheel drive versions, unless Jeep integrates a second engine to take advantage of all-wheel drive. Case to follow.