Jeep 4xe System Achieves Electrifying Performance

Ever since Jeep hit the market, the brand has become synonymous with 4x4 capability. And while there have been many variations of the 4x4 drivetrain bolted to the undercarriage of the off-road-capable SUVs, it’s safe to say that none of them are quite like the latest system – dubbed the 4xe (four-by-e).

If you made the connection, the “e” stands for electricity. And while not electric-exclusive (…yet) this plug-in hybrid 4x4 system offers up the ability to flip between hybrid (gas and electric) and electric only for drawing power. Most exciting is that despite the introduction of electric power, the 4xe system is able to achieve similar performance to the standard 4x4 system. Let’s take a closer look at how it works.

Under the hood, the 4xe version of the Wrangler looks fairly traditional. There is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine up front that provides the bulk of the power to the transmission, the transfer case and finally, the wheels. The 4xe system adds a few additional components, including a pair of electric motors – one which is built into the transmission and a second that is attached directly to the engine.

While the engine is very much capable of powering the system itself, the duo of electric motors helps to add additional torque for rock crawling and offer an added boost off the line that gives it additional capabilities without gulping any additional fuel. The hybrid drivetrain isn’t a limitation – it’s an enhancement. Case in point? The 4xe Wrangler delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pound feet of torque.

As we mentioned, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe can travel exclusively on electricity. When it does, it can reach an EPA-estimated 49 MPGe rating, or the equivalent of 49 mpg on a single gallon. It equates to a 370-mile driving range when the Wrangler is charged up with both a full battery and full tank of gas.

Currently, this system is available in the Wrangler, but given its exciting capabilities, we fully expect that the 4xe system will make its way through the lineup. Looking to learn more or to test out the hybrid-powered 4x4 drivetrain for yourself? Pay us a visit at Glenn Polk Auto and we’ll get you plugged in.