Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa is delaying the launch of the Wagoneer S in the US to ensure that the quality of the vehicle meets the company’s high standards. The electric SUV, assembled in Mexico, is set to hit the market this fall, but Jeep is willing to push back the launch date if necessary. The company is striving for perfection in quality rather than rushing to meet deadlines.
## The Importance of Quality Control
Quality has become a major concern for Jeep’s parent company Stellantis, as CEO Carlos Tavares acknowledged issues at some US factories. Specifically, the Ram 1500 assembly line in Michigan has seen a high number of trucks needing repairs right after leaving the factory. Jeep is determined to avoid similar quality issues with the Wagoneer S by conducting thorough quality control checks before launch.
## Future of the Wagoneer S
While the Wagoneer S will initially be electric-only, there is a possibility that combustion engines could be introduced later on. Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa has not ruled out the idea of incorporating traditional engines in the Wagoneer S and the company’s other EV, the Recon. Both vehicles are built on the STLA Large platform, which also supports internal combustion engines, offering flexibility for future product development.
## Meeting Sales Targets
Jeep has set a new goal of selling one million vehicles annually in the US, but achieving this target will be challenging. In the first half of 2024, Jeep delivered only 304,186 vehicles in the US, a 9% decrease from the previous year. Introducing a gas-powered version of the Wagoneer S, in addition to the electric variant, may help attract a wider range of customers and boost sales numbers.
## Electric Performance and Pricing
The all-electric Wagoneer S Launch Edition boasts impressive performance and range. Priced at $71,995, the SUV offers over 300 miles of range from a 100.5-kWh battery pack and can be fast-charged at up to 350 kW. With a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup delivering 600 horsepower, the Wagoneer S can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. Jeep is positioning the Wagoneer S as its first global electric SUV, with plans to expand availability to other markets beyond the US and Canada.
Overall, Jeep’s decision to prioritize quality control and potentially offer a gas-powered version of the Wagoneer S reflects the brand’s commitment to meeting customer expectations and sales targets in the competitive automotive market. The delayed launch of the electric SUV demonstrates Jeep’s dedication to delivering a premium product that meets high standards of performance and reliability.