What the?! Jeep reveals all-electric Jeep Wrangler Magento Concept with a six-speed manual transmission.
Jeep has pushed the boat right out for this year’s Easter Safari with a bunch of concept vehicles but none are as interesting as the Wrangler Magento Concept (based on a two-door Wrangler). This thing runs a custom-built axial flux electric motor that operates up to 6000rpm. Hanging off the back, bizarrely, is a six-speed manual which activates a regen mode when dipping the clutch and shifting gear.
Jeep reckons its e-motor Magento Concept is comparable in output to a V6 Wrangler, with 285hp and the ability to sprint to 96km/h in 6.8 seconds. The Magento’s e-motor is fed by four battery packs producing 70kWh.
The batteries are scattered around the vehicle to help balance the weight. One pack replaces the Wrangler’s fuel tank, another is mounted opposite the fuel tank, the third pack sits atop the e-motor under the bonnet and the fourth pack mounts in the space normally used for a rear storage compartment.
To ensure this thing is as capable off-road as its siblings, the batteries and battery control module are tucked away inside a waterproof enclosure. For things like the winch and general auxiliary systems like infotainment and lights there are two 12V batteries. A DC-to-DC converter charges both batteries, “allowing long-term operation of accessories to power a campsite or an unexpectedly long winch operation”.
As far as looks go, the Magento Concept is bright white with Surf Blue accents, with a heavy-duty bonnet with scoop and decals. The whole thing’s been lifted two inches and rides on 17-inch Lights Out black metallic wheels with 35-inch mud-terrain tyres, custom roll cage, Mopar Rock Rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch and a steel belly pan for underbody protection.
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