Jeep Magneto 3.0 Leads 7 Wild Concepts at Easter Jeep Safari 2023

The Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah is a must-see event for Jeep brand and off-road driving enthusiasts. The 57th edition is taking place from April 1-9, 2023, and as you’d expect, there are plenty of wild Jeep concepts on display—seven of them, actually.

Some of these concepts are based on existing models, while others are classic restomods. The Jeep Magneto 3.0, in particular, is the third and ultimate iteration of a bonkers all-electric Wrangler concept that sets the stage for the upcoming debut of the production-ready Jeep Recon.

Magneto 3.0

Photo: Jeep

The original Magneto shown in 2021 was an ICE-powered Wrangler converted into an EV. It delivered 285 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. of torque through a six-speed manual transmission, incredibly. For Jeep engineers, the point was to make it a fun and intriguing proposition.

Last year with Magneto 2.0, the output and torque ratings tripled to 625 horsepower and 850 lb-ft. thanks in part to a 600-amp electrical system.

For 2023, Jeep is introducing Magneto 3.0, which features an upgraded electric motor and 20 percent improved range (the exact number is not specified). Drivers have two output levels to choose from: a Standard mode with 285 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. of torque, and a Full Beans mode cranking things up to 650 horsepower and 900 lb-ft. of torque.

Photo: Jeep

Regenerative braking can be activated or not, while a more aggressive setting for hill descent control enables one-pedal off-road driving. Magneto 3.0 also comes with a Dynatrac 60 front axle and Dynatrac 80 rear axle, 20-inch bead-lock wheels and massive 40-inch all-terrain tires. Furthermore, the Bright White and Surf Blue body has been revised to make access to the cabin easier while paying tribute to the liveries of Magneto 1.0 and Magneto 2.0.

Jeep Scrambler 392

Photo: Jeep

Don’t like fat and heavy off-roaders? The Jeep Scrambler 392 concept is based on a four-door Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 392 and made 450 lbs lighter thanks to a two-door body with some carbon fibre panels. The engine is the same 6.4-litre HEMI V8 that produces 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque.

The Jeep Scrambler 392 boasts an all-new suspension kit called Accuair which makes it possible to adjust ground clearance anywhere between 1.5-5.5 inches while driving. That means the vehicle can get down to avoid a tree branch and later rise up to tackle more rugged terrain. The Sublime Green exterior is quite striking, just like the blue seats with green topstitching inside.

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe

Photo: Jeep

This concept is exactly what its name says: a classic Cherokee from the late 1970s with a plug-in hybrid powertrain under the body. We’re talking about the Wrangler 4xe’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor.

The magnificent retro looks are achieved through bright paint colours and graphics in typical ‘70s fashion. The fuel door comes from an old Gremlin (Jeep was also owned by American Motors Corporation back then) and there’s an eight-track player in the cabin. How cool is that?

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe

Photo: Jeep

This magenta-coloured concept emulates the production model in Tuscadero (pink) from 2021. Jeep had planned to build only 5,000 units and all of them were quickly scooped up, leaving many customers disappointed.

Similar to the Jeep Scrambler 392, the Wrangler Rubicon 4xe is equipped with the Accuair suspension kit.

Grand Wagoneer Overland

Photo: Jeep

Cross-trekking and glamping enthusiasts will love the Grand Wagoneer Overland concept. Based on a Grand Wagoneer with a turbocharged six-cylinder Hurricane engine, it’s been extensively modified inside, with thick carpeting and a pair of beanbags with pillows replacing the second- and third-row seats.

The so-called Skyloft is a pop-up tent with a 72-inch bed mounted on the roof, while solar panels provide power for heating and various small appliances.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure

Photo: Jeep

This concept embodies open-top motoring at its best. All of the roof panels have been removed, the standard Wrangler doors have been replaced by tubular half-doors, and the windshield glass folds down on top of the hood. The name refers to the adjustable departure angle resulting from the mobile spare tire that can be stored inside the cargo area.

The Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure is also equipped with a tubular grille guard up front that folds down to create a bench. Pretty clever. Meanwhile, the cabin features a dashboard rail where drivers can mount their cameras or phones to shoot videos while off-roading. The Saddle Leather interior is a wonderful match with the dark blue exterior.

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn 

Photo: Jeep

Based on the Gladiator Rubicon, the Sideburn concept adds a series of components and accessories that make it a true adventure vehicle. The most notable is a Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit with Bilstein performance shocks featuring piggyback reservoirs.

A removable LED lighting system is also included along with the same grille guard/bench found on the Rubicon Departure. Embedded into the unique cargo bed panels are storage provisions and backup tanks for overlanding expeditions. The main body is painted in eye-catching Solar Flash Yellow.

Which one of these Jeep concepts is your favourite?

Watch: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Overland Review

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