The primary all-electric Jeep might not arrive at US dealerships this fall as deliberate. In line with 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 consumers count on from the rugged SUV maker.
Jeep did infuse trendy updates like a redesigned seven-slot grille with ambient forged lightning to tell apart it as an EV. It’s additionally Jeep’s most aerodynamic SUV but, with a CD of simply 0.29.
On the within, you’ll discover Jeep’s newest tech and software program, together with a large “best-in-class” show with over 45″ of display house.
Jeep mentioned the Wagoneer S will arrive at dealerships this fall with a beginning value of $71,995. Nonetheless, that might not be the case.
Filosa mentioned the electrical Wagoneer is sort of prepared, but when its high quality is lower 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 seems to be to revamp the model.
“I would like excellent high quality, and I do know that we’re shut, however shut is just not ok,” 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 important because the model seems to be to reverse falling gross sales.
Nonetheless, 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 aren’t anticipated to enter manufacturing till no 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 looking forward to the second half of 2024.
Jeep just lately slashed costs on well-liked fashions, together with the Grand Cherokee and Compass, which helps clear stock. In line with Filosa, Jeep’s stock on vendor tons 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 have been Jeep’s essential development drivers, with their finest retail gross sales month in almost two years.
Filosa mentioned additional value cuts might be coming for 2025 Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Gladiator fashions.
