Catone hinted that the next-generation STLA One platform is being developed to ensure Jeep can deliver the four-wheel-drive ability that it’s known for: “It’s not that we are developing on something [that is] existing that we have to adapt; we are working on something new. It’s a shared platform globally, but we have the opportunity to create these cars from scratch, so we can implement all of our requirements as a Jeep.
“We are very confident that we will be able to deliver a true Jeep experience and benefit from the manufacturing and the industrial efficiency of the co-operation within the group.”
Catone said that the new platform is being engineered to ensure that the 4WD of the new Jeeps will be able to offer “best-in-class” off-road ability, with “specific investments” being made to offer the technical ability and approach and departure angles requited.
He hinted that could mean the new Jaapes will feature technology that will be enabled on STLA One such as steer-by-wire, which is being introduced by sister brand Peugeot in its future line-up.
Chinese joint venture to supply new flagship
Jeep’s new large SUV will be produced in a joint venture with Chinese firm Dongfeng, which is already partnering with Stellantis on a pair of new global Peugeot models.
Catone said the new machine, which will be built in China on a Dongfeng platform, will feature a design entirely set by Jeep and will still be engineered for off-road ability.
He described it as a “global Jeep project that will be sold in China and other regions, including Europe” but insisted it’s a “vehicle fully designed by Jeep”.
He said it’s similar to “an iPhone model, in which the technical features of the design are fully lined with the identity of the brand but we leverage on the industrial footprint”.
The D-SUV will also be multi-energy, with a plug-in hybrid option that’s likely to be based on Dongfeng’s range-extender technology.