The times, they are changing! With the world transitioning to electric powered vehicles, it seems that some brands have taken it as a challenge to develop fun and usable vehicles. Since the boundaries can be pushed further than ever before as a result of how compact batteries have become, there are nearly endless configurations. While most of this has led to electric sports cars and supercars, one brand has finally chosen to take the road less traveled - literally. Unsurprisingly, instant torque should work well off-road, but the brand doing it is the biggest surprise.
Jeep Is Taking Center Stage For Their Electric Cars
One of the brands most commonly associated with America’s automotive industry, regardless of being owned by Stellantis, is pushing into the electric market. Jeep began pushing into the electric market with the Wrangler 4XE in 2021. The hybrid system in the Wrangler gets the SUV a combined near 50 miles per gallon. However, it is about to be overshadowed by their newest vehicle, one with full electric driving - the Recon EV. The most impressive of the upcoming four new electric Jeeps for 2024, the Recon sticks to the traditional Jeep look, including everything you expect from the Wrangler but does it all while being fully electric.
The Recon Is A New Chapter For Jeep
The Recon is built on the Stellantis STLA platform, meaning independent rear suspension like what is found on the Ford Bronco and has shown both on-road and off-road performance. Jeep insists the Recon will remain as “trail-rated” as the Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Cherokee while being the most efficient model in their lineup. With styling drawn directly from the Wrangler (removable doors, retractable roof, boxy wheel arches), Jeep says they are aiming to bring a new demographic to their brand, as well as to firmly position themselves in the electric market with a vehicle enthusiasts can be happy about owning.
The Recon Builds Off Of The Wrangler, Not Replaces It
The Recon will include a variety of features that will improve it’s off-road driving capability such as electronic locking differentials (e-locker axle tech), Selec-Terrain traction management functions, skidplates, tow hooks, and beefy tires. Additionally, since the Recon does not need a long hood, the front overhangs are minuscule which will improve off-road driving when facing an incline or decline. Pair all of this with a regenerative braking system that works best at low speeds, and you’ve got the recipe for a self-charging off-roader. Potentially, the Recon could be the ultimate Jeep if it features all of these. With the removable body panels, you can save additional weight and improve the range of the Recon even further.
The Recon is on track to be the next big vehicle for Jeep. While this is not replacing the Wrangler or even the Wrangler EV if it gets built, the Recon uses some of Jeep’s heritage and history to not only preserve their energy and personality as a brand going into the future, but intends to do it without replacing an icon like the Wrangler. If the Recon performs as well as it looks, Jeep might have a serious winner on their hands.