Jeep is looking to hybridize models like the Cherokee without compromising ruggedness.
To the surprise of no one, word comes that Jeep is exploring the use of hybrid powertrains for use in its off-road vehicles. According a report in Australian publication Drive, Steve Bartoli, Chrysler's Asia-Pacific product planning manager, was quoted as saying, "We are absolutely looking at different things in that field [hybridization] and we are very active behind the scenes in the development of these systems and how it fits into our profile." Bartoli also said that while greenhouse gas and regulatory constraints around the world are definitely pushing Jeep's hand in that direction, the company hasn't made any final decisions.
Although the benefit of electric propulsion's instant torque is obvious in low-speed, off-road applications, the maker has concerns regarding the reliability and durability of electric motors and battery packs under harsh conditions. To address this, Bartoli says the brand is "evaluating new ways to integrate hybrid power specifically for serious off-road applications."
- First Drive Review: 2014 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk V-6
- Instrumented Test: 2013 Lexus RX450h Hybrid
- Diesel Comparison Test: 2014 Grand Cherokee vs. Touareg, ML350, Cayenne, X5
To gain some insight on those pressing concerns, Jeep may want to take a look at the handful of diesel-electric hybrid Range Rovers and Range Rover Sports that Land Rover unleashed on a on a 10,000-mile journey earlier this year in the run up to the Range Rover hybrid's late-2013 on-sale date. The bar has already been set for Jeep, it's now a matter of just high how Chrysler's off-road brand can jump.
from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com
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