For this off-road beast, the third time's the charm. The Jeep design team's objective while developing the Jeep Wrangler Magneto concept was always to use the platform to test, explore, and push the frontiers of 4x4 electrification.
The Jeep Magneto 1.0 concept debuted in 2021 as a fully functional BEV that was stealthy, silent, swift, and a formidable rock-climbing force. Engineers and designers at the Jeep brand produced a zero-emission vehicle with Jeep 4x4 capabilities that delivered new levels of economy, environmental responsibility, and extreme off-road performance.
The Jeep Magneto is based on a two-door 2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and has a custom-built axial flux electric motor that can reach 6,000 rpm and links to a six-speed manual transmission for ultimate control. Initially, the small e-motor was calibrated to provide up to 273 lb.-ft. of torque and 285 horsepower.
The Jeep Magneto 2.0 concept, which debuted in 2022, pushed the performance boundaries even farther. The propulsion system's peak amperage was more than doubled to 600 amps, allowing the concept vehicle to instantly deliver up to 850 lb.-ft. of peak torque to the wheels - more than triple the torque output of the previous version of the concept - and 625 horsepower for serious rock-climbing challenges.
Jeep Magneto will be upgraded in 2023 with a new, more efficient motor that increases torque production, as well as revised programming that results in a 20% increase in usable energy and range.
Three driver-selectable capabilities that leverage on the benefits of a totally electric drivetrain in extreme off-road scenarios are also new to the Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 concept in 2023:
The driver can choose between two power levels (standard: 285 horsepower/273 lb.-ft. torque; maximum: 650 horsepower/900 lb.-ft. torque) via the output selector.
When engaged, the two-stage power regeneration mode permits regular driving while off and improved brake regeneration utilizing the electric motor.
In low range, aggressive hill descent mode can be set to provide genuine 'one pedal' off-road driving in extreme rock-crawling circumstances.
Dynatrac 60 front axles (5.38:1 ratio), Dynatrac 80 rear axles (5.38:1 ratio), 20-inch off-road beadlock wheels, 40-inch mud terrain tyres, and a unique 3-inch lift round out its capabilities.
The Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 concept also evaluates the proportions of the concept car. The door aperture has been adjusted and swept back an additional six inches for convenience of access. A new B-pillar was pushed rearward 60mm from standard to create room for a modified anti-roll bar for improved accessibility. The trailing edge of the front fender was pushed back two inches. The windscreen has been sloped back 12 degrees to simulate a 'chopped' roof from the side without shortening the front glass.
The Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 features a new paint scheme that pays respect to the concept vehicle's three evolutions. The Bright White and Surf Blue color scheme continues, but the third generation adds more bright exterior elements, including red highlights.
The front seats of the Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 concept have been reupholstered in a deep blue leather with red accent stitching to match the exterior. For enhanced functionality and longevity, the rear seats have been removed and the floor has been Rhino-lined in Surf Blue.
