Jeep's foray into electric vehicles has transitioned from concept testing to full-scale production plans. A recent UAW document detailing the agreement between the union and Jeep's parent company, Stellantis, has revealed that the upcoming Wrangler in the J70 series will be exclusively electric, with production set to commence in 2028 at the existing Wrangler plant in Toledo, Ohio. The endeavor will be supported by a substantial $1.5 billion investment in the facility.
This electric Wrangler will offer two powertrain options: a standard battery-electric setup and a series plug-in hybrid configuration. The latter will feature a smaller battery that's charged on the go by a gasoline engine functioning solely as a generator, similar to the strategy employed by Stellantis' Ram brand with their Ramcharger electric truck.
The document also disclosed that the current-generation Wrangler and its Gladiator counterpart will continue production until 2028. In 2025, the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid will see updates, and at the same time, a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid will join the lineup. Notably, there was no mention of the Gladiator's fate beyond 2028, hinting at the possibility of its discontinuation to make way for a Ram midsize pickup truck. This midsize Ram is expected to be an electric truck, with production slated to begin in 2027 at Stellantis' plant in Belvidere, Illinois.
Jeep has previously showcased three electric Wrangler concepts under the Wrangler Magneto series. While these concepts were based on the current Wrangler's body-on-frame platform, the production electric Wrangler is expected to adopt one of Stellantis' four dedicated electric vehicle platforms, including a body-on-frame design.
Before the arrival of the electric Wrangler, Jeep plans to launch an electric off-roader in the form of the Recon SUV. This vehicle, built on Stellantis' STLA Large dedicated EV platform, will feature off-road capabilities with Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management, an e-locker axle, under-body protection, tow hooks, robust off-road tires, removable doors, and a power top with a spacious opening for a semi-open-air experience.