Chrysler Unveils Electric Jeep Patriot

There's no wonder that United States-based automakers are extremely focused on electric vehicles given the current economic conditions, but how does the “electric SUV” tag sound to you? Well, Chrysler thought it would be a great idea to incorporate its advanced ENVI electric-vehicle technology into the popular Jeep Patriot model, a move that could reduce fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions.

The resulting vehicle is called Jeep Patriot EV and, according to figures provided by the American automakers, has a battery-only autonomy of 40 miles with zero emissions and zero fuel consumption. Nevertheless, the overall driving range can be boosted to nearly 400 miles thanks to the adjacent gasoline engine that recharges the drained lithium-ion battery system.

“The Jeep Patriot EV expands our portfolio of ENVI electric-drive vehicles and is just one more example of what is possible through the technology Chrysler is developing,” said Lou Rhodes, President, – ENVI, and Vice President, Advance Vehicle Engineering, Chrysler LLC. “Moreover, the Patriot EV provides socially responsible, advanced electric technology in the industry’s most capable compact SUV.”

Even though the most important change obviously concerns the engine, Chrysler also modified both the interior and exterior of the car. For instance, the exterior is now painted in Green Pearl to underline the Jeep Patriot's goal to protect the environment. The interior is pretty much the same as the one included in the revised 2009 Jeep Patriot, Chrysler said.

The exterior styling has also been enhanced with a bunch of new elements, such as the unique wheel design and size that turn the compact SUV into a sportier vehicle than the regular Jeep Patriot. In addition, the electric model sports a slightly restyled front, including here the grille and the vertical accents of the front fascia.