Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa has an ambitious agenda for the brand, with goals that include increasing annual sales to one million globally and navigating the transition to electric vehicles. In line with this, Jeep plans to launch two battery-electric models, the Wagoneer S and the Recon. The Wagoneer S, which is expected to be priced in the luxury range, will be similar in size to the Grand Cherokee. On the other hand, the Recon draws inspiration from the Wrangler and is sized similarly to it. It even features removable doors and Trail Rated badges. However, the most significant difference between the two is that the Recon will have a skateboard-style unibody architecture while the Wrangler will remain body-on-frame when it goes electric.
While EV market share is growing, the pace of growth is not sufficient to warrant Jeep’s previous levels of investment in electric vehicles. As a result, there have been questions about whether the Wagoneer S and Recon could be fitted with a hybrid powertrain instead of being solely electric. Filosa has clarified that the Wagoneer S will remain electric-only, but there is some flexibility with the Recon. He stated that while staying committed to deep electrification, they are considering opportunities for the Recon. The platform on which it will be built is versatile, allowing for potential options in the future. However, for now, the Recon will also be a battery-electric vehicle.
This approach aligns with Filosa’s belief in offering customers freedom of choice in powertrains. He sees it as a way to provide a diverse lineup of offerings ahead of competitors. This philosophy is also reflected in other brands within the Stellantis empire, such as adding hybrid powertrains to vehicles like the Avenger and the European 600. The possibility of a hybrid Recon would further connect it to the Wrangler, which has been successful with its plug-in hybrid variant, the Wrangler 4xe. In fact, the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe were the best-selling plug-in hybrids in the nation in 2022 and 2023.
While a hybrid Recon is not currently in the plans, it is not due to any engineering limitations. The STLA Large chassis is ready to accommodate an internal combustion engine. If a hybrid Recon were to be developed, it could provide another shared aspect with the Wrangler and potentially contribute to the success of the Wrangler PHEV. Jeep anticipates selling 175,000 plug-in hybrids this year, indicating a strong market demand for these vehicles.
In conclusion, while Jeep remains committed to electrification, there is room for flexibility when it comes to the Recon. This approach aligns with the brand’s goal of offering customers a range of powertrain options. While a hybrid Recon is not imminent, it is a possibility that could further connect the Recon to its Wrangler counterpart and contribute to Jeep’s success in the plug-in hybrid market.