Electric vehicles do benefit from multi-speed transmissions, even if it is just a two-speed unit. Can an EV smoothly descend hills without the internal combustion engine's compression braking? Of course, electrified vehicles typically have regenerative braking. The Wrangler 4Xe has a MAX-regen button which triggers a very aggressive response mode. I know, I get to play with this stuff.
This conversation exposes the propaganda which dominates the battery electric narrative. We are told that battery electric power-trains are simple, requiring less complex mechanical parts. Which is true for NEVs running around warm weather retirement communities, or city cars such as the Fiat 500 and Nissan Leaf. The reality is, with the push to a battery electric "one-size-fits-all" panacea, complexity is added when radiators and coolant pumps need to be used for cooling large battery packs. Now we are seeing transmissions becoming necessary for off-road applications. It's not easy (or cheap) being green.
The Jeep Magneto concepts have given a strong hint about providing gear reduction for EV off-roading. While those concepts use a single motor with conventional mechanical axles, the Recon with its dual drive units will need the transmission setup on both axles. So much for simplicity.
... too many eggs in this basket is bad policy.
I don't see this patent and related research as too many eggs in the basket. I see it as adding more tools to the toolbox. There are operating environments where battery electric power-trains will be advantageous. How this all plays out all remains to be seen. Yes betting the farm on all battery electric is dumb. We must realize the people running Stellantis rub elbows with the financial types who are making life miserable for Toyota for going against the narrative.
Bill, stay away from those Mr. Bean videos! You've been brainwashed to cling to your ICE powered vehicles.