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Jeep unveils Magneto electric concept car

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Jeep has unveiled a new all-electric concept car. The Jeep Magneto is a fully capable electric vehicle that is stealthy, quiet, quick, and an unmistakable rock-climbing force. Jeep engineers and designers have created a zero-emission vehicle with Jeep 4×4 capability that provides new levels of efficiency, environmental responsibility, and performance on and off-road.

Showcased on the trails of Moab, Utah, the Jeep Magneto concept is the perfect demonstration of the electrifying performance of today’s internal combustion engines when combined with off-road capability and fun-to-drive freedom.

The Jeep Magneto is based on a two-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and uses a custom-built axial flux electric motor that operates up to 6,000 rpm. The e-motor is connected to a six-speed manual transmission, creating a unique manual-electric powertrain with a clutch that operates as it would with an internal combustion engine. In quick-shift scenarios, the e-motor engages regen upon clutch engagement to prevent rev-hang.

Comparable to the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, the compact e-motor is tuned to deliver up to 370Nm of torque and 285hp. Intentional calibrations developed during testing help the powertrain in the Magneto to emulate the driving experience of the V6, matching not only torque but also horsepower. During moderate driving, the performance difference between the V6 and the unique manual-electric powertrain in the Magneto is negligible except for near-silent operation.

When greater acceleration is needed, the e-motor delivers all 370Nm. of torque without the need to build up revolutions per minute. The Magneto concept runs from zero to 60mph in 6.8 seconds.

Powering the e-motor in the Jeep Magneto are four battery packs with a combined power of 70 kW/h, running an 800-volt system. The lithium-ion batteries are distributed around the Wrangler to balance the weight on the four wheels. One pack replaces the mid-ship fuel tank in the Wrangler, another is mounted opposite the fuel tank location, the third pack sits atop the e-motor under the bonnet, and the fourth pack mounts in the space normally used for a rear storage compartment, also using space typically occupied by the exhaust muffler.

An inverter, derived from race cars, converts DC power to AC for the high-tech motor. The batteries, a vehicle interface box, and the battery control module all reside in waterproof enclosures to maintain the 30-inch water-traversing capability of the Wrangler. A 12-volt battery powers existing systems, such as the radio and lighting. A second 12-volt battery serves as an auxiliary power unit (APU) for accessories, such as the winch. A DC-to-DC converter charges both 12-volt batteries, allowing long-term operation of accessories to power a campsite or an unexpectedly long winch operation. Unique mounts secure the battery packs for harsh driving and custom skid plates protect the packs from potential strikes to the undercarriage while traversing harsh terrain.

The exterior of the Magneto features a Bright white colour with Surf blue accents, along with a heavy-duty performance bonnet with centre scoop and custom decal, redesigned rear gate, and dramatic full-width forward lighting. Custom royal blue and black leather seats with sapphire-coloured inserts and straps, Surf blue truck bed liner, and Mopar slush mats give the interior design of the Magneto an electrifying appearance.

The Jeep Magneto comes equipped with a JPP 2-inch lift kit, 17-inch Lights Out black metallic wheels with 35-inch mud-terrain tyres, custom roll cage, Mopar rock rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, and a steel belly pan for added off-road capability.