The primary all-electric Jeep could not arrive at US dealerships this fall as deliberate. In response to Jeep’s CEO, Antonio Filosa, the corporate’s first EV may launch later than anticipated. As Filosa made clear, “no launch if the standard isn’t excellent.”
Jeep’s first EV may nonetheless be delayed within the US
Jeep unveiled its first international electrical SUV, the Wagoneer S, in Could. Filosa boasted that the Wagoneer S is “distinctively a Jeep and 100% electrical in each means. “
You’ll be able to see that Jeep has not swayed from its roots, with iconic design parts that patrons count on from the rugged SUV maker.
Jeep did infuse trendy updates like a redesigned seven-slot grille with ambient forged lightning to differentiate it as an EV. It’s additionally Jeep’s most aerodynamic SUV but, with a CD of simply 0.29.
On the within, you can see Jeep’s newest tech and software program, together with an enormous “best-in-class” show with over 45″ of display screen house.
Jeep mentioned the Wagoneer S will arrive at dealerships this fall with a beginning value of $71,995. Nevertheless, that might not be the case.
Filosa mentioned the electrical Wagoneer is nearly prepared, but when its high quality is less than par, it might not launch on time. Talking with Automotive Information, Filosa made clear, “No launch if the standard isn’t excellent.”
As Jeep’s first electrical SUV for North America, its most vital market, the Wagoneer S, is essential because it appears to be like to revamp the model.
“I need excellent high quality, and I do know that we’re shut, however shut is just not adequate,” Filosa defined. Jeep’s CEO mentioned high quality is extra vital than timing, suggesting its first EV may nonetheless be delayed.
Reversing slumping gross sales
With gross sales slipping over the previous 5 years, Jeep’s electrical SUV is significant because the model appears to be like to reverse falling gross sales.
Nevertheless, it’s just one half. Following the Wagoneer S, Jeep will introduce its Wrangler-inspired Recon EV.
The electrical Jeep Recon options Wrangler-like choices like detachable doorways and home windows. Jeep additionally plans to launch a brand new mainstream crossover and an electrical Renegade priced below $25,000.
Different Jeep fashions due for an electrical improve embody the Gladiator and Grand Cherokee, however these usually are not anticipated to enter manufacturing till not less than 2027.
Though Jeep’s US gross sales fell one other 19% within the second quarter after slipping 9.3% in Q1, the model stays eager for the second half of 2024.
Jeep lately slashed costs on widespread fashions, together with the Grand Cherokee and Compass, which helps clear stock. In response to Filosa, Jeep’s stock on vendor heaps fell by 12% from July 1 to the top of August.
After gross sales spiked 12% in August, Jeep’s market share rose 22%. The Grand Cherokee and Compass fashions had been Jeep’s essential progress drivers, with their greatest retail gross sales month in practically two years.
Filosa mentioned additional value cuts could possibly be coming for 2025 Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Gladiator fashions.
