Jeep is a brand that has always been synonymous with adventure, freedom, and off-road capability. But in 2023, Jeep also became the leader in the plug-in hybrid market in Italy, thanks to its innovative 4xe range of SUVs: Jeep Compass, Jeep Avenger, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Renegade, Jeep Compass, Jeep Wrangler.
What is 4xe Technology?
4xe is the name of Jeep’s plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology, which combines a traditional gas engine with an electric motor and a battery pack. This allows the 4xe SUVs to offer three driving modes: Electric, Hybrid, and eSave.
- Electric Mode allows for nearly zero tailpipe emissions up to highway speeds. The Wrangler 4xe can run on this mode for a distance of up to 21 miles on a full charge, while the Grand Cherokee 4xe can go up to 25 miles.
- Hybrid Mode combines the power of both the gas engine and the electric motor, providing maximum horsepower, instant torque, and thrilling acceleration. In this mode, electric power is consumed first, and the gas engine kicks in when needed.
- eSave Mode prioritizes the gas engine, saving battery charge for later use. When power demand is low, the engine shuts off. It can also be reconfigured to increase the battery charge as well.
The 4xe technology also features regenerative braking, which recovers energy when decelerating and braking and charges the battery. The battery can be fully charged in approximately 2 hours using a Level 2 charger (240V), or 12 hours using the included Level 1 charger (120V).
How Did Jeep 4xe Dominate the Italian Market?
According to the data from UNRAE (the Italian Association of Foreign Car Makers), Jeep sold 14,498 4xe SUVs in Italy in 2023, accounting for 18.9% of the plug-in hybrid market share. This made Jeep the best-selling brand in this segment, ahead of Volvo, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.
The main reasons for Jeep’s success in Italy are:
- The 4xe SUVs offer the best of both worlds: the legendary capability and versatility of Jeep, and the efficiency and sustainability of electrification.
- The 4xe SUVs are eligible for various incentives and benefits in Italy, such as tax deductions, access to restricted traffic zones, free parking and charging, and lower insurance premiums.
- The 4xe SUVs have a competitive price compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in the market. For example, the Wrangler 4xe starts from $57,000, while the Grand Cherokee 4xe starts from $65,000.
- The 4xe SUVs have a strong appeal to both loyal Jeep fans and new customers who are looking for a greener and smarter way to drive.
What Are the 4xe SUVs Available in Italy?
Jeep offers two 4xe SUVs in Italy: the Wrangler 4xe and the Grand Cherokee 4xe.
- The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the most capable Wrangler ever, with a PHEV powertrain that delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pounds of torque and goes 0-60 mph in 6 seconds. It also has up to 31.5-inch water fording capability and can tackle any terrain with its advanced 4x4 systems, such as the Selec-Trac, Rock-Trac, and Quadra-Drive II. The Wrangler 4xe is available in three trim levels: Sahara, Rubicon, and High Altitude.
- The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is the most awarded SUV ever, now electrified. It features a PHEV powertrain that delivers 375 horsepower, 470 pound-feet of torque and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds. It also has a sophisticated design, a luxurious interior, and a host of advanced safety and technology features. The Grand Cherokee 4xe is available in four trim levels: Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit.
What’s Next for Jeep 4xe?
Jeep is not resting on its laurels after its impressive performance in Italy in 2023. The brand plans to expand its 4xe range with more models, such as the Jeep Compass 4xe and the Renegade 4xe, which are already available in other European markets. Jeep is also working on developing fully electric vehicles as part of its vision to become the greenest SUV brand in the world.
