Wrangler Unlimited

Make
Jeep
Segment
SUV

There was no way Jeep was going to let the all-new Ford Bronco steal the spotlight for long. Aside from unveiling the Hemi 392-powered Wrangler Rubicon concept the same day as Ford's big debut back in July, the automaker has been busy forging ahead with electrification plans. The first significant introduction to this was the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, revealed last week. This first-ever plug-in hybrid American Jeep is not only aimed towards efficiency but equally so for off-roading.

With a total of 350 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque on hand, the Wrangler 4xe also has two electric motors and a 17 kWh battery pack. Off-road lovers will love the fact they'll have instant torque at their disposal as well as even better control for climbing and rock crawling. Several other off-road-focused systems will be optional.

In short, the Wrangler 4xe could very well be the model to get if off-roading adventures take priority. And to further prove that point, Roadshow has learned from Jim Morrison, head of Jeep in North America, that the company has plans to install solar charging stations on certain trails in California and Utah. Wrangler 4xe owners will be able to charge their rigs at Rubicon Springs, which is the halfway point of the 22-mile Rubicon Trail, along with some still unannounced trails in Moab, Utah.

Bear in mind the Wrangler 4xe can also drive up to 25 miles on electric power only. And yes, Morrison also confirmed the off-roader completed the Rubicon Trail in all-electric mode with zero problems.

But hey, owners could encounter unexpected problems along the way that could drain more power than planned, and no one wants to get stranded. The fact that charging stations will be available for a just in case scenario is just good to know. For those who do require a recharge on their off-road route, they'll only have to sacrifice up to 2 hours to achieve full power. Jeep's planned chargers will also be conveniently located at camping sites and the like.

Pricing for the 2021 Wrangler 4xe has not yet been announced and sales are scheduled to kick off early next year.