Jeep Magneto Concept Unveiled as Fully Electric Wrangler
This year at the annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari in Utah, one of the many concepts Jeep will introduce is particularly interesting since it foreshadows a fully electric variant of the iconic Wrangler.
Don’t worry, though: there are plenty of gas-powered models, too!
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Jeep Magneto
Chrysler, Dodge, Ram and Jeep have often been criticized for not doing enough when it comes to electrification. The Jeep Magneto concept is a battery-only Wrangler Rubicon that surprisingly retains a six-speed manual transmission and distributes electrons to all four wheels.
The electric motor is designed to deliver performance similar to the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, which is rated at 285 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is achieved in 6.8 seconds—not very quick for an electric vehicle, but then again no one buys a Wrangler for straight-line capability.
The 70-kWh battery pack is part of an 800V architecture and lies in a waterproof compartment allowing the Jeep Magneto to cross rivers and creeks up to 75 centimetres deep, like any regular Wrangler. The modules are strategically positioned to optimize weight distribution.
As for the design, highlights include a unique roll bar, front winch, revised bumpers, underbody skid plates, raised suspension and 35-inch tires.
Jeepster Beach
Here’s a concept that draws inspiration from the past, more specifically the 1968 Jeepster Commando. It features extensive modifications and uses parts lifted from a 2020 Wrangler Rubicon. The wheels are all-new, just like the dashboard and steering wheel.
As far as restomods go, this one is pretty cool, with a bold combination of gold and red paired with a chrome roll bar. Under the hood is the current Wrangler’s available turbo-four engine producing 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Red Bare
This special Gladiator sports a red-on-red combination that includes a body-colored roll bar and half doors. Inside, the plaid seats look like they belong in a Golf GTI.
Motivation comes from a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel V6, while the suspension is raised by two inches. There are meaty 37-inch tires, a winch and extra protection for off-road driving, as well.
Jeep Orange Peelz
Using a more classic approach, the Jeep Orange Peelz is based on a two-door Wrangler and features a set of half doors similar to the Gladiator Red Bare. The contrasting black hardtop with side windows can be removed in one piece.
A two-inch lift kit with Fox shocks, black fender flares, large front bumper with a winch, spotlights on the hood and 17-inch wheels also set the tone. The interior features a similar treatment as the Red Bare concept, though plaid is not found on the dashboard.
Meanwhile, the 3.6-litre V6 benefits from a free-flow exhaust system, yet power and torque remain unchanged at 285-horsepower and 260 pound-feet.
The 2021 edition of the Moab Easter Jeep Safari (March 27-April 4) will also include concepts that were supposed to make their physical debuts last year but ultimately couldn’t due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Two of them are the Gladiator Farout and the Wrangler Rubicon 392, the latter housing a powerful V8 engine and already confirmed for production.
