Jeep Unveils Recon EV: Glimpse on Specs, Features, and More

Jun 05, 2024 05:25 AM EDT

JEEP WRANGLER OFF ROAD — (Photo : PEXELS/Aman Malik)

Following the recent release of the all-electric Wagoneer S, Jeep's next electric vehicle to make its debut in the US will be the Recon. Orders for the 2025 Jeep Recon EV will open towards the end of 2024. Although the Recon sets itself apart from the Wrangler, it clearly bears many of the latter's traits.

Introducing Jeep Recon EV

The Recon will be trail-ready for off-road adventures, designed to meet trail-rating standards, but it is not intended to substitute the Wrangler EV, which is slated for a future launch. As reported by The Drive, Jeep plans to transfer its electric expertise to the Recon model, which maintains design elements from the Wrangler.

The Jeep Recon EV is expected to match the size of the four-door Wrangler and offer removable doors. The key distinctions lie in the exclusive electric powertrain options it will feature. As per SlashGear, unlike the Wagoneer S, the release date for the Jeep Recon EV is not as definitive.

Some sources suggest it may launch in 2025 or even earlier, while others project it for as late as 2027. Interestingly, Jeep's website currently lacks a dedicated section for the Recon where customers can find updates on pre-orders, unlike the setup for the Wagoneer S.

Initially planned for pre-orders to commence in 2023 upon their announcement in 2022, Jeep has since been less specific about the Recon's details and release timeline. SlashGear also disclosed that while the Recon EV borrows its sturdy, boxy body from the Jeep Wrangler, it nevertheless uses the same STLA Large chassis as the Wagoneer S.

Jeep's Selec-Terrain traction system and all-wheel drive are features that make it capable of off-road driving. Specific details regarding power and range are currently undisclosed, but one might anticipate them to align closely with the Wagoneer S specifications.

Jeep Recon EV Removable Doors

The Manual stated that Stellantis declared in 2022 that the Recon would come equipped with off-road tires, tow hooks, underbody shielding, e-locker axle technology, and the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system. It would also come with detachable doors, removable glass sections, and a one-touch powertop.

Notably, Jeep did not mention the windshield folding down or the top being detachable. The mention of removable glass refers to the rear quarter panel and hatch sections. Every Jeep model is certified for off-road trails, including the more luxurious ones.

The Jeep Recon EV is expected to attract casual off-road enthusiasts but may not match the Wrangler in extreme rock-climbing abilities or the rugged body-on-frame build characteristic of Wranglers. Based on the Stellantis STLA L platform, the Recon will feature dual motors and independent suspension for both front and rear axles.

The Manual also noted that Stellantis' production plans include a 2028 Wrangler BEV and an update to the Wrangler 4xe PHEV in 2025. Therefore, the Recon could cater to those seeking off-road adventures with a fully electric powertrain until the Wrangler EV is released.

As mentioned in The Manual, pricing information has not been disclosed for either Jeep BEV model, but it is anticipated that the Wagoneer S could potentially be priced at or even exceed six figures. There is a hopeful expectation that the pricing for the Recon EV will be notably below the current Wrangler PHEV, which costs over $50,000. However, the exact pricing remains to be seen. A starting price in the low to mid $40,000 range seems like a reasonable expectation at this stage.