Like many automakers, Jeep will almost certainly be forced to implement hybrid technology in order to meet stringent upcoming emissions and fuel economy regulations.

Looking to make a virtue of necessity, the SUV brand is investigating not only the kilometers benefits of gas-electric power plants, but also the potential off-roading advantages of their instantly-available torque when integrated into a serious four-wheel-drive system.

“There is a lot of opportunity there [for Jeep to pioneer hybrid off-road systems],” Steve Bartoli, Chrysler’s Asia-Pacific product planning manager, told Drive.

“We are absolutely looking at different things in that field and we are very active behind the scenes in the development of these systems and how it fits into our profile.”

While hybrid-powered Jeep models are seen as inevitable, Bartoli said there isn’t yet a timeline for their introduction.

Key concerns include electric motor reliability and battery range when traversing challenging terrain.

“We always want to make sure a Jeep can get you home,” Bartoli said.

While it determines how best to integrate hybrid technology, Jeep will continue to boost efficiency through more conventional means, such as the Grand Cherokee’s 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 and the nine-speed automatic that launched in the new Cherokee.

Tags:
Categories: