The first all-electric Jeep may not arrive in US dealerships this fall as planned. According to Jeep CEO, Antonio Filosa, the company's first EV may be launched later than expected. As Filosa made it clear, “there is no presentation if the quality is not perfect.”
Jeep's first EV could be delayed in the US
Jeep launched its first electric SUV globally, the Wagoneer S, in May. Filosa boasted that the Wagoneer S is “a different Jeep and 100% electric in every way. “
You can see that Jeep hasn't strayed from its roots, with the signature design elements that buyers have come to expect from the rugged SUV maker.
Jeep has included modern updates like a redesigned seven-slot grille with ambient cast lightning to distinguish it as an EV. It's also Jeep's most aerodynamic SUV yet, with a CD of just 0.29.
Inside, you'll find Jeep's latest technology and software, including a large “state-of-the-art” display with more than 45″ of screen space.
Jeep said the Wagoneer S will hit dealerships this fall with a starting price of $71,995. However, that may not be the case.
Filosa said the electric Wagoneer is almost ready, but if its quality is not up to par, it may not start on time. Talking to Car NewsFilosa made it clear, “There is no presentation if the quality is not right.”
As Jeep's first electric SUV for North America, its flagship Wagoneer S is as important as it looks to revitalize the brand.
“I want high quality, and I know we are close, but closeness is not good enough,” explained Filosa. A Jeep executive said quality is more important than time, suggesting its first EV could be delayed.
To reverse the decline in sales
With sales falling over the past five years, Jeep's electric SUV is important as the brand looks to reverse falling sales.
However, only one part. Following the Wagoneer S, Jeep will introduce its Wrangler-inspired Recon EV.
The Jeep Recon electric has Wrangler-like options like removable doors and windows. Jeep also plans to introduce a new regular crossover and an electric Renegade priced under $25,000.
Other Jeep models due for electrification include the Gladiator and Grand Cherokee, but they are not expected to enter production until at least 2027.
Although Jeep sales in the US fell another 19% in the second quarter after slipping 9.3% in Q1, the brand remains optimistic about the second half of 2024.
Jeep recently slashed prices on popular models including the Grand Cherokee and Compass to help make that clear. According to Filosa, the number of Jeeps in the sales areas decreased by 12% from July 1 to the end of August.
After sales rose 12% in August, Jeep's market share increased 22%. The Grand Cherokee and Compass models were Jeep's best growth models, with their best sales month in nearly two years.
Filosa said further price cuts are likely for the 2025 Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Gladiator models.