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

Jeep® North America Boss Says To "Stay Tuned"...

Robert S. Miller September 15, 2023

2023 Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited High Altitude 4xe in Bright White. (White Rock Dodge).

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.

Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep® North America, introducing the new 2024 Jeep Gladiator. (Jeep).

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.

2024 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe. (Jeep).

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.”

2024 Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon X 4xe in High Velocity. (Jeep).

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.

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H Hemi_Dart Sep 15, 2023 #1

Grand Cherokee L 4xe? Lack of modern engines & PHEVs was embarrassing last year and no real changes for this year. Pathetic.

Not many people are posting because there's nothing of note to read. I only glance a few times a month now. CDJR are all tied up in DEI & Gay Pride parties, the customers are understanding the lack of product focus.

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TripleT Sep 16, 2023 #2

Grand Cherokee L 4xe? Lack of modern engines & PHEVs was embarrassing last year and no real changes for this year. Pathetic.

Not many people are posting because there's nothing of note to read. I only glance a few times a month now. CDJR are all tied up in DEI & Gay Pride parties, the customers are understanding the lack of product focus.

You seem very angry.... sure I can't point you to a forum where everyone else has a similar tone? Sure, you would also complain when the Hemi is gone and Pentastar is phased out like you have zero understanding of how each powertrain addition has to have the capacity and complicates the pull system on the line.

Did you see the thread is about Gladiator ..... if you use the search bar you can find a thread about L and 4xe. You will also find the seating system for the 3rd row creates issues with battery placement and gas tank size. Your energy on that should be focus on Hurricane 6 that is late to party and watching the Capacity of the powerplant ramp up and certification in WL75

As for the Gladitor while it shares many of the body and interior with the Wrangler it is more Ram on the frame and mechanicals so they will need to work out battery placement and integration. The xE powerplant takes a lot more intergration work.

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patfromigh Sep 16, 2023 #3

The Gladiator is built on a separate line from the regular Wrangler, so it can't use the Wrangler's "rotisserie" for battery and electronics installation. This was stated when the Wrangler 4Xe was introduced. The 4Xe transmission is still imported from Germany, a country which is in severe industrial decline due to an energy shortage. The production lines in the US are in the pilot production phase.

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