When you think of electric vehicles (EVs), Jeep might not be the first name that springs to mind. However, the renowned automaker is making waves in Europe with its impressive Avenger SUV, amassing more than 40,000 reservations, with a substantial portion dedicated to the electric version.
Jeep revealed that out of the remarkable 40,000 Avenger orders, over 16,000 of them are for the Avenger EV, constituting a whopping 40 percent. And the numbers are on the rise. Currently, there are already 18,487 Avenger registrations, with approximately 5,700 of them being EVs, making up 31 percent of the total orders.
But what’s driving this surge in demand? One significant factor is the Avenger’s recent triumph in being crowned the European Car of the Year, an accolade that is sure to boost sales for both the gas and electric variants.
Despite the Avenger’s European success, Jeep has reportedly opted not to introduce this model in the United States, choosing to keep it exclusive to European markets. Additionally, while Jeep hasn’t ventured into the American EV market just yet, their plug-in hybrid offerings are making substantial headway. The Wrangler 4xe, for instance, holds the title of the best-selling plug-in hybrid in America, even with a modest 21-mile electric range.
During the first quarter of this year, an astonishing 38 percent of Wrangler sales were plug-in, and the Grand Cherokee 4xe accounted for 13 percent of the SUV’s overall sales volume.
But for American Jeep enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the brand’s electric foray, the wait won’t be too long. Jeep has announced that the Recon and Wagoneer S EVs are set to make their debut in the U.S. next year.
The Recon, a midsize SUV with design elements borrowed from the iconic Wrangler, promises an open roof and removable doors, along with formidable off-road capabilities, thanks to electronic locking differentials and a dual-motor powertrain.
On the other hand, the Wagoneer S will slightly downsize from its gas-powered counterparts but aims to make up for it with a remarkable range of 400 miles and a potent 600 horsepower. While Jeep has teased a sleek and futuristic concept rendering for the Wagoneer S, the final production model’s appearance remains shrouded in mystery.
Jeep’s remarkable success in Europe with the Avenger EV demonstrates the growing demand for electric SUVs. As they gear up to introduce electrified models in the U.S., the Jeep brand is undoubtedly poised to leave an indelible mark on the electric vehicle landscape.
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