Their drivetrain uses the same Remy AC motors currently installed in the Chevy Volt. With two of these motors installed above the rear axle, the SUV’s total power is 152 kW (204 hp.) Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries are mounted where the engine and drivetrain would normally be installed, providing 37.6 kWh of storage. That's almost double the power and just over fifty percent more battery capacity than a Nissan Leaf. Range is estimated at somewhere between 80 and 100 miles per charge.
The company has only released information on a rear wheel drive conversion, although a four-wheel drive version is in the works. Instead of maintaining the Grand Cherokee's sophisticated traction system, it will probably add front-mounted motors. Whether this can maintain the vehicle's renowned off-road prowess remains to be seen, although the motors' ability to provide maximum torque at low RPM should eliminate the need for a low range gear set.
Unlike the Equinox and Sky, the Grand Cherokee is targeted at the commercial market where its parts availability and ability to tackle short-range driving applications make the vehicle an ideal candidate for fleet sales. Shortly after the SUV hits the market, Amp plans on selling conversions the Jeep's platform-mate, the Mercedes Benz M-class.
Final pricing will be announced at the show, but the electric Jeep should be just under $50,000 after a Federal rebate, about the same as a Tesla Model S.
