Jeep Wrangler JL to get a plug-in hybrid powertrain by 2020

After a long wait and a small glimpse at the SEMA show, the new generation Jeep Wrangler made its official debut at the 2017 Los Angeles Motor Show. Following the reveal of the new-gen Wrangler, the American carmaker has confirmed that the iconic off-roader will be offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain come 2020.

There are no specific details revealed at the moment about the PHEV Wrangler. However, we understand that the powertrain could be directly scrounged from FCA’s only other plug-in hybrid – the Chrysler Pacifica minivan. That way, the Wrangler won’t need to spend another fortune developing a hybrid powertrain, whereas the system used in the Pacifica has already undergone a test of time. The Pacifica’s hybrid powertrain is a 16kWh battery pack combined with a 3.6-litre V6 gasoline engine. The hybrid powertrain lends an electric range of 53 kilometres to the minivan. 

The electrified Wrangler will be the first hybrid vehicle from Jeep. The American carmaker did showcase a Yuntu Concept at the Shanghai Motor Show earlier this year. However, no further development came out of that concept. But the Wrangler, when electrified will have to modify its four-wheel-drive layout, since the battery pack will be placed between both the axles. The famous off-roading abilities of the Jeep won’t be hindered but only helped by the electric powertrain.