Stellantis Explores New Hybrid Solutions for Off-Road Jeep Models

Stellantis is reportedly looking to adapt planetary gear hybrid systems similar to those utilized in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan for more rugged vehicles, according to a recent patent filing.

The Pacifica Hybrid relies on a planetary power-split system, which integrates a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with two electric motors for propulsion. However, Stellantis’s patent submission to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office suggests that such systems may not be suitable for every application, particularly in off-road vehicles.

The filing highlights challenges associated with using planetary gear systems in conjunction with mechanical four-wheel-drive transfer cases. Stellantis notes that this integration could lead to issues such as rough gear shifts between high and low ranges and difficulty engaging low-range gears while stationary.

Jeep’s Future Hybrids Could Combine Two-Speed Transfer Cases with Planetary Gears

These concerns may have influenced the decision to implement a different hybrid setup in the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, which use traditional mechanical four-wheel-drive systems paired with 8-speed automatic transmissions.

In a bid to reconcile the benefits of both systems, Stellantis is contemplating a new hybrid solution that combines a two-speed transfer case with a planetary-gear power-split configuration.

The proposed setup would include a disconnect device that could uncouple the engine and electric motors from the driveline, enabling the motor torque to synchronize the input and output shaft speeds. This innovation could enhance the off-road capabilities of future Jeep hybrid models while potentially improving efficiency compared to the existing 4xe system.

As Jeep continues to see strong sales for its current 4xe plug-in hybrids, the company is also rumored to be exploring hybrid options without charging ports to introduce alongside existing models in the U.S. market.