Jeep is aiming to increase its sales of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the U.S. by up to 50% this year, as the company looks to bridge the gap between traditional gas-powered SUVs and all-electric vehicles. The Stellantis brand plans to sell between 160,000 and 170,000 PHEVs in the U.S. in 2023, up from 113,113 units sold last year.
Jeep's CEO, Antonio Filosa, believes that offering consumers a variety of options is key to driving growth in the market. PHEVs, which combine an internal combustion engine with EV technologies, could help accelerate the adoption of electrified vehicles as a transition to all-electric models.
The brand's focus on PHEVs comes as it prepares to launch its first all-electric SUVs in the U.S., starting with the Wagoneer S. Jeep has seen success with its PHEV models, with sales up 47% in the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year.
In addition to PHEVs, Jeep is also considering launching traditional hybrid vehicles in the U.S. The company is evaluating consumer response to different types of electrified vehicles, including EVs, PHEVs, and traditional hybrids.
Stellantis is also planning to introduce "range-extender electric vehicle" models, or REEVs, which operate as zero-emission EVs until the vehicle's battery is depleted, at which point an electric generator powered by a V6 engine kicks in to power the vehicle.
Overall, Jeep's strategy of offering a mix of EVs, PHEVs, and potentially traditional hybrids reflects the company's commitment to providing consumers with a range of options to meet their needs and preferences in the evolving automotive market.