Jeep is finally joining the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) marching band. A hybrid system will power both the Jeep Renegade and Jeep Compass as the company transitions from gas-guzzling polluter to a sentient, eco-friendly fuel-sipping something.

These new plug-in hybrid models are rechargeable from an external power outlet. The electric motors have a claimed pure electric range of approximately 31miles and about 80mph full electric top speed for both Renegade and Compass.

The electric units work together with the new 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine to increase efficiency and power overall. For the Renegade, the power sits in the 190hp and 240hp range resulting in outstanding on-road performance: zero to 62mph is reached in approximately seven seconds.

The Compass delivers a combined electric and ICE total system power of up to 240hp.  In addition, the new Jeep SUVs with plug-in hybrid technology offer improved acceleration and fast engine response. They also deliver CO₂ emissions lower than 50g/km.

With electrification, the Jeep range further improves its off-road capability thanks to the greater torque offered by the electric motor and the ability to adjust it with extreme precision while driving on the most challenging terrain, where a very low transmission ratio is needed. 

Thanks to the new electric all-wheel-drive technology (eAWD), traction to the rear axle is not provided by a prop shaft but through a dedicated electric motor. This allows the two axles to be separated and to control the torque independently in a more effective way than a mechanical system.

Pricing and availability will be another press release away.

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