Iconic automotive marque Jeep has announced the launch of its first plug in hybrid version of the Grand Cherokee in Australia.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe PHEV will arrive in August and boast an all-electric range (NEDC) of around 52kms, and a combined fuel economy of 3.2 litres/100kms – although that will depend very much on how it is used.
While it’s not the promised all-electric Jeep Avenger, Jeep Recon, or Jeep Wagoneer S – all of which are reportedly due to arrive on Australian shores over the next few years – the new plug in Grand Cherokee is a step in the right direction, albeit a hesitant step.
Jeep is describing its Australian launch as a further sign of the Jeep brand’s commitment to “Zero Emission Freedom’” and is being hyped as the “most technologically advanced, 4×4-capable and luxurious Grand Cherokee yet.”
The 2.0-litre turbocharged l-4 PHEV 4xe powertrain combines two electric motors, a 400v 17.3kWh EV battery pack, 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission for maximum efficiency and capability.
Delivering 280kW of combined power and 637Nm of combined torque, the increased efficiency of the new Grand Cherokee is backed by the use of electric power steering and an electrically driven air conditioning compressor, removing those loads from the engine.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s 4xe system also includes an Integrated Dual Charging Module (IDCM) that combines a battery charger and a DC/DC converter in a single and compact unit, as well as a Power Inverter Module (PIM) that is reduced in size. Charging time varies from less than 10 hours in Mode 2 to less than 3 Hours in Mode 3 at 7.4kWh.
As is to be expected with a plug-in hybrid model, drivers can tailor the hybrid powertrain to their situation – from daily commuting in pure-electric mode, to using the combination of electric and ICE for extended highway road trips.
Many experts have warned that plug in hybrids can actually lead to more emissions, depending on use. See: Don’t plug in your plug-in hybrid? Regulators will now hold car makers responsible
Australians interested in the new Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve 4xe PHEV can expect to pay upwards of $129,950, depending on options.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.
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