Someone Will Win a $40,000 Vacation by Naming the New Electric Jeep SUV
Expanding the resurgence of the Jeep Wagoneer marquee, Jeep’s parent company Stellantis is launching its first all-electric sports SUV. Distinct from the full-size Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and longer-wheelbase L versions of both is the Wagoneer S. However, the “S” moniker is only temporary.
Jeep asked the public for suggestions on the official name in an online contest. Unfortunately, the entry site wasn’t up for long and ended on December 2. Whoever submitted the name that Jeep inevitably picks will win a vacation for four to Wyoming’s Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The week-long retreat has a value of $40,000.
The future of Jeep electrification
Jeep joins the baker’s dozen of brands under the Stellantis umbrella transitioning to electrically-powered propulsion. The multinational’s long-term Dare Forward 2030 plan is set to achieve net-zero carbon emissions with battery-electric vehicles (BEVs). By 2038, Stellantis says it plans to sell 100% EVs in Europe and 50% in the U.S.
Importantly, these electric vehicles are not designed to replace the current fossil fuel-powered Jeep range. The Wagoneer S and the recently-unveiled Wrangler-style Recon show how the brand can evolve as governments worldwide narrow emissions regulations.
The design of the Jeep Wagoneer S
There are only a few photos and videos of computer-generated Jeep Wagoneer S architecture to go off. However, the new electric SUV is expected to be a looker. With its forward-leaning front fascia and ambient LED-lit front grille, the Wagoneer S takes Jeep’s design language into the next decade. Its long and seemingly low-slung, wind-swept profile is marked at the back by a hovering wing.
In a video from AutoBlog, Stellantis Chief Design Officer Ralph Gilles asserts the Wagoneer S will “redefine the art of America premium.” The midsize SUV is positioned to compete directly with the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, Audi Q5, and BMW X5.
Jeep Wagoneer S performance specs
Although the code-named “S” is a placeholder, it does stand for one thing: speed. Gilles says it also stands for “striking” and “sexy.” Digressing to the powertrain, there are no official technical specifications, but MotorTrend presumes front and rear dual motors. Whatever the setup, the Jeep Wagoneer S is said to pack a 600-hp punch while achieving 400 miles on a single charge.
The 3.5-second 0-60 mph time of the Wagoneer S does bias the EV to the road. However, it still has off-road credentials. Built on the modular STLA Large platform, it will have four-wheel-drive capability and all-terrain management. However, the Wagoneer S will not be Rubicon trail-rated like most other Jeeps.
When will the Wagoneer S become available?
The Wagoneer S will be one of four all-electric Jeeps for North America and Europe by the end of 2025. At its September debut, Stellantis said the Wagoneer S and its off-roading Recon relative were anticipated for the 2024 model year.
Pricing for the Wagoneer S has yet to be announced, but reservations are scheduled to open early next year after the official name has been confirmed. Even though many missed out on the naming contest, they can jump in soon to reserve Jeep’s interpretation of a midsize SUV for tomorrow.
