So, Where Is The Jeep® Gladiator 4xe Plug-In Hybrid?

The absence of the Jeep Gladiator 4xe at the 2023 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) left many enthusiasts puzzled. Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep North America, highlighted the success of the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, which are currently the top two best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the United States. This led attendees and livestream viewers to anticipate the unveiling of a PHEV variant of the Gladiator, but unfortunately, it was not revealed.

When questioned by the media after the presentation, Morrison responded, “All I can say is stay tuned. By 2025, we’ve committed to electrifying the entire range, so it’s safe to assume that it’s on the horizon.”

Both the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe models feature a sophisticated propulsion system, combining two electric motors, a 400-volt, 17-kWh, 96-cell lithium-ion battery pack, a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, and a TorqueFlite 8-speed ZF 8P75PH automatic transmission. This setup optimizes both efficiency and capability. The 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine belongs to Stellantis’ Global Medium Engine (GME) family. It utilizes a twin-scroll, low-inertia turbocharger mounted directly to the cylinder head for enhanced efficiency. The system further improves efficiency by employing electric power steering and an electrically driven air-conditioning compressor, alleviating these tasks from the engine.

Depending on the specific 4xe model chosen, the powertrain provides approximately 21 to 25 miles of all-electric range before the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine engages to extend the drive, making it an attractive electric option for a wide range of drivers.

The upcoming release of the Gladiator 4xe isn’t the only exciting development expected by 2025. While Jeep already offers the Renegade and Compass with 4xe plug-in technology in various global markets, it officially announced the introduction of a Wagoneer 4xe model for the 2024 model year during last year’s “4xe Day Presentation.”

Stellantis envisions that 50% of its U.S. sales will consist of all-electric vehicles (EVs) by 2030, with the European market moving towards 100% EV sales. However, this ambitious goal may face challenges, given the resistance from some European Union (E.U.) countries towards new all-electric regulations, not to mention the lingering skepticism towards all-electric vehicles held by a significant portion of the American population.

Nonetheless, in the ever-evolving landscape of automotive technology, unexpected shifts and changes are always possible.