Confirming a previous report by Leftlane and adding one crucial detail, we have now learned what electric SUV we can expect to be unveiled in Detroit in less than three weeks time.
When Leftlane last reported that a pure electric SUV was expected to debut in Detroit, we suggested it would likely be the Jeep Grand Cherokee due to the fact that the GC shares a platform with the Mercedes-Benz ML that the vehicle’s creator previously electrified – and we were right.
Because of that shared platform, AMP says it was able to use the exact same EV-powerplant in the Jeep as the Mercedes-Benz, literally down to the last nut and bolt. This of course made the addition of the Grand Cherokee to the list of AMP’s conversion-applicable vehicles a no-brainer.
We have also learned through AMP Electric Vehicles and a New York Times Wheels report that this SUV is expected to retail for about the same near-$60,000 price as the Tesla Model S.
Unlike the Tesla, however, this Jeep Grand Cherokee with an electric powertrain will offer real off-road prowess, although it will be limited in one major way: range. The Jeep GC EV is expected to have just 100 miles of range under typical driving conditions from to its 37-kilowatt-hour battery pack. It was also confirmed that the conversion will work on four-wheel drive models, but power figures have not been released.
While AMP won’t likely turn anyone away looking to convert their Grand Cherokee into a true-blue green SUV, Mr. Taylor, chief exec of AMP, said his company would really rather target higher volume deals, like converting existing, older vehicle fleets from companies like FedEx or U.P.S. into electric vehicles for $30,000 a pop.
Expect more details and pictures to come live from the Detroit auto show in mid-January.
References
1.’AMP to unveil…’ view
