Jeep is gearing up to launch two all-electric SUVs for the 2024 model year – the off-road ready Recon compact SUV and the high-performance Wagoneer S full-size SUV. As an EV analyst and Jeep fan, I‘ve been eager to see how these new battery-powered models balance the brand‘s rugged heritage with the instant torque and tech of electric drivetrains.
Here I‘ll provide a comprehensive overview of both the Recon and Wagoneer S, from range and power specs to pricing and availability timelines. You‘ll get an insider‘s perspective on how Jeep is adapting its SUVs for an electric future, and how these new EVs stack up to rivals from Ford, GM, Tesla and more. Let‘s get into it!
What‘s motivating Jeep‘s big EV push?
Before diving into the Recon and Wagoneer S details, it helps to understand why Jeep is investing heavily in electric vehicles in the first place. Some key factors:
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Surging EV demand: Industry analysts predict over 50% of new cars sold will be electric by 2030. All automakers are ramping up investments to compete.
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Environmental pressures: Governments and activists want to curb vehicle emissions. New regulations are accelerating the shift to electric.
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Future-proofing: Creating an advanced EV platform strengthens Jeep for the long haul. Rivals like Ford and GM are also pursuing aggressive electrification goals.
Jeep in particular faces skepticism around translating its trail-rated credibility to battery-powered models. The Recon and Wagoneer S aim to prove that off-road mastery and electric performance can successfully co-exist under the seven-slot grille.
Introducing the Jeep Recon EV: all-electric off-road readiness
The Jeep Recon EV takes direct aim at retaining the brand‘s off-road appeal in the age of electrification. As Jeep‘s first EV developed specifically for the North American market, it‘s engineered to deliver legendary 4×4 capability without the tailpipe.
Familiar styling, reimagined details
Visually, the Recon carries the boxy proportions of the petrol-powered Wrangler. Signature styling cues like the vertical grille, trapezoidal wheel arches and fold-down windshield affirm this EV‘s Jeep DNA. However, details like the simplified grille, aerodynamic contours on the fenders and LED lighting nod to its electric underpinnings.
removOptimized dimensions for off-roading
The Recon‘s key dimensions – namely its wheelbase length, ride height and approach/departure angles – are optimized not for pavement but for traversing rocky trails.
For example, the abbreviated overhangs allow the tires to extend closer to the farthest corners, maximizing the vehicle‘s ‘breakover‘ angle for clearing steep obstacles. And the battery pack‘s centralized, low placement beneath the cabin contributes to a low center of gravity – an advantage climbing over irregular terrain.
All terrain performance with Jeep 4×4 systems
Jeep has plenty of proprietary off-road tech that will likely feature on the Recon EV. These include:
- Selec-Terrain: Adjusts traction, torque and drivetrain settings for different surfaces like mud or snow
- e-lockers: Can virtually ‘lock‘ both axles to evenly distribute torque to all four wheels
- Underbody protection: Steel plates shield vital mechanical components from rocks or debris
Add the inherent traction boost of an EV‘s instant torque, and the Recon packs some serious off-road credentials. The entire package focuses squarely on maintaining Jeep‘s 4×4 heritage without the tailpipe emissions.
Wagoneer S: How Jeep taps EVs for ultra-fast luxury
If the Recon leans into Jeep‘s rugged roots, the electric Wagoneer S represents a dramatic stylistic departure as a luxury performance flagship. The specs and design language suggest speed, refinement and technology will be top priorities for this full-size SUV.
Stunning acceleration and handling
A multi-motor powertrain with 600 hp, AWD torque vectoring and a curb weight under 6,000 lbs allows the Wagoneer S to sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. That‘s as quick as a $100,000+ Tesla Model S Plaid. Augmented by aerodynamic exterior styling, the Wagoneer S has legitimate performance credentials.
Premium passenger experience
Inside, the Wagoneer S focuses heavily on passenger comfort. Examples based on the concept model include:
- Panoramic glass roof with adjustable opacity
- Rear seats with heating/cooling and massage functions
- Audio setup with up to 23 speakers for surround sound
- Latest infotainment with navigation, apps and over-the-air updates
Everything about this SUV signals luxury first and off-roading second. It‘s a showcase for the highest trim possibilities as Jeep expands its electrified lineup.
By the numbers: Wagoneer S vs Recon
| Specs | Wagoneer S | Recon EV |
|---|---|---|
| Range (mi) | >400* | ~250** |
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | 3.5 sec | TBA |
| Max power (hp) | ~600 | TBA |
| Passengers | 5 | 5 |
| Available AWD | Yes | Yes |
| Target MSRP | $80K+ | $60K |
Projected estimate
Unofficial target
Here we clearly see the different orientations between the Recon as a mass-appeal off-roader compared to the Wagoneer S as an unapologetic performance flagship.
How pricing and timelines impact the rollout
Another major consideration for prospective buyers are the prices, release timelines and production plans behind this pair of electric Jeep SUVs.
Affordability amid luxury competition
The $60,000 starting target for the Recon positions it competitively amongst mid-size electric crossovers like Volkswagen‘s ID.4 and Mazda‘s MX-30. Meanwhile, the luxe Wagoneer S encroaches on premium territory versus rivals like the Cadillac Lyriq, Rivian R1S, BMW iX and Mercedes EQC. Federal tax credits of $7,500 per vehicle will help ease some of the sting.
For context, consider Jeep‘s current Wagoneer models powered by gas V8s retail between $60,000-$105,000 before options or delivery fees. The pricing ladder is steep, but Jeep sees value in casting a wide net across budgets.
Arriving for the 2024 model year
Jeep confirms production will kick off in early 2024 for the Recon compact SUV. The Wagoneer S will follow later in 2024. This trails the Europe-focused Avenger subcompact, hitting the market in 2023.
We can expect order books to open for North American reservation holders in 2023 once output scales up. Keep in mind these timeframes could easily slide depending on supply chain, manufacturing constraints or any economic instability. Patience and tempered expectations are prudent.
What about the gas cars?
An important footnote – Jeep still sees value in its internal combustion engine models (for now). The Recon and Wagoneer S usher in new electric options without replacing the petrol range outright. This differs from brands like Audi, Jaguar and Cadillac racing to go all-electric.
Jeep‘s gas models account for too many sales in America to drop them overnight. As the decade continues, policies and consumer preferences may force Jeep to expedite the transition.
My take as an EV expert – exciting times ahead!
As an electric vehicle researcher and analyst, I‘m thrilled to see iconic brands like Jeep push harder into electrification. The Recon and Wagoneer S represent bold first steps toward a zero-emissions future that still feels on-brand.
These new SUVs address key barriers limiting EV adoption, namely range anxiety and concerns over performance. 400+ miles from the Wagoneer S helps alleviate range stress for road trips or venturing off-grid. And the Recon focuses squarely on assuring customers that battery-powered drivetrains can deliver as capably off-road as gas.
There‘s still much left uncertain around exact specs, options and just how well these models will sell amongst loyal Jeep customers. But the Recon and Wagoneer S concepts check all the right boxes as products optimized for an electric paradigm shift. I predict open-minded buyers will come away highly impressed once these ambitious EVs hit the trails and streets.
Few automakers can match Jeep‘s credibility around durability and capability – now they‘re charging ahead to electrify those enduring strengths for a new era. Buckle up for the ride!
Let me know if you have any other questions as you decide whether to take the electric plunge with Jeep. I‘m happy to chat more.
