While it’s a late entrant into the EV segment, Jeep has already made significant strides in the field, as shown by the Jeep Wrangler Magneto 2.0 concept. As implied by the name, the Magneto is the second version of Jeep’s all-electric vehicle after the first one was revealed in early 2021. Additionally, while not for sale just yet, it proves the automaker is serious about switching from its fuel-guzzling off-road vehicles to zero-emission alternatives.

Jeep’s EV goals

Notably, Jeep is one of 14 brands under Stellantis, an auto conglomerate that offers various types of vehicles, including luxury vehicles, SUVs, and more. According to CNBC, the company was formed in early 2021 by combining Fiat Chrysler Automobiles with the PSA Group.

Fiat Chrysler was the Italian-American multinational corporation responsible for car brands like Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Alfa Romeo, Maserati, etc. On the other hand, car brands like Peugeot, Citroën, Opel, DS Automobiles, etc., were under the PSA Group.

As part of Stellantis, Jeep is a significant part of the auto conglomerate’s low emission vehicles (LEV) plans for the future, which include becoming a market leader by 2030. There are also plans for software, electronic powertrains, batteries, and up to four different platforms for the various types of vehicles in the Stellantis lineup.

Jeep’s CEO, Christian Meunier, mentioned: “forging ahead into an electrified future” with the automaker’s bestselling models at the Stellantis EV day in 2021. He also mentioned installing solar charging stations in trails as part of the supporting infrastructure for EVs and plug-in hybrids like the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe.

Stellantis has also committed more than $31 billion toward these endeavors, and the results are starting to show in the Magneto 2.0 and other electrified concepts.

The Jeep Magneto 2.0’s unique transmission

Most electric cars only have one gear, so they don’t need gear selectors like their fuel-powered counterparts. That’s why models like the Tesla Model Y and other EVs are completely devoid of gear shifters. Jeep has chosen to break the mold with the first six-speed manual in an electric vehicle, giving drivers more control over the propulsion system.

Nevertheless, there are fundamental differences between the manual transmission in the Jeep Wrangler Magneto 2.0 and similar transmissions in fuel-powered cars. For instance, drivers don’t actually need the clutch pedal to get the car moving, and they can pick gears without worrying about the rev range.

Available information on the Jeep Wrangler Magneto 2.0 concept

The Jeep Magneto 2.0 took part in the 2022 Easter Jeep Safari, an event in Moab, Utah, where the automaker presented passion projects, new production vehicles, and concepts to customers. The EV is a significant upgrade from the first Magneto, especially in terms of performance.

For context, the first Wrangler Magneto had an output of 273 lb-ft of torque and 285 horsepower, resulting in 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.8 seconds. The newer Magneto 2.0, on the other hand, is capable of outputting 850 lb-ft of torque and 625 horsepower. Consequently, it’s no surprise it handles off-roading and rock climbing a lot better than its predecessor.

In addition to the six-speed manual, the Jeep Magneto 2.0 comes with four lithium-ion battery packs running an 800-volt system. Furthermore, the electric SUV features an inverter for turning DC power into AC power for the motor. The motor in the system is custom-built and operates up to 5,250 rpm.

Notably, there are also some changes to the two-door Wrangler body style that the Magneto is based on. One is the longer wheelbase to cater to the powertrain components in addition to a lift kit for better ground clearance. This is matched up with 20-inch wheels and 40-inch off-road tires. There are also custom bumpers, carbon-fiber wheel flares, an off-road chassis setup, and other bells and whistles to make it more off-road capable.