Jeep has unveiled the new Wrangler Magneto electric SUV concept before the Moab Easter Jeep Safari scheduled for 27th March to 4th April 2021. The iconic trails in Moab, Utah has been the brand’s testing ground for the brand’s latest 4X4 SUV as well as a venue to showcase its new concept and performance parts. This year the brand is showcasing seven distinctive Jeep brand and Jeep Performance Parts concept vehicles along with prototype Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) from Mopar.
The Jeep Magneto E-SUV will be a zero-emission vehicle that comes with Jeep’s 4×4 capability giving the SUV a stealthy, quick and distinct rock-climbing ability. The design draws inspiration from the two-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon but the Magneto uses a bespoke axial flux electric motor that comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox with a clutch system that operates similar to the internal combustion engine, forming a unique manual-electric powertrain.
The bespoke electric motor can operate up to 6,000 rpm and delivers all 370 Nm on demand. This means all the power is available on tap without having to wait for the revolutions to build-up in an internal combustion engine. The power unit is comparable to a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine and is capable of delivering 285 Hp of power. The electric power unit has been calibrated to emulate the driving experience of the V6 engine with a silent experience.
The power unit draws power from a 70 kWh battery pack running am 800V system. The batteries, interface box and the control module all reside in waterproof enclosures that retains the Wrangler’s high water wading capability. The brand also employs an inverter system derived from race cars that convert DC-to-AC power. An auxiliary power unit (APU) with 12 Volt architecture is also used to operate a winch and other accessories.
The concept study of the Wrangler Magneto electric SUV features a Bright White colour with Surf Blue accents and comes with custom decals on the bonnet and centre scoop. The front fascia also features full-width lighting in LED making the Magneto easily distinguishable from the Rubicon. The SUV runs on 17-inch Lights Out black metallic wheels with 35-inch mud-terrain tyres. The Magneto also comes with a JPP 2-inch lift kit, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, a steel belly pan, Mopar Rock Rails and a custom roll cage. On the inside, the SUV features Custom Royal Blue and Black leather seats with Sapphire-colored inserts as well as Surf Blue truck bed liner and Mopar slush mats.