Jeep has started on the electric trail with the launch of the plug-in hybrid version of the Renegade with Compass and Wrangler versions soon available.

Jeep UK has revealed the Renegade 4xe with it on sale from September. Jeep’s New Zealand distributor, Ateco, says it has no plans as yet to import the hybrid plug-in Renegade.

The Renegade 4xe is the first electric vehicle as the American firm seeks to become the “greenest, most sustainable SUV company in the world”.

Visually almost identical to other Renegade variants, the 4xe gains an electric motor mounted on a modified version of the 4WD Renegade’s rear subframe, plus a 1.3-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine.

The battery – which is good for an electric-only range of 50km at speeds of up to 130km/h in ideal conditions – has been mounted in the floorpan’s centre tunnel and takes up some space under the rear seat. The fuel tank - also under the rear seat - has been reduced to a capacity of 39 litres.

The Jeep Renegade 4xe is centered on the pillars of efficiency, performance and responsibility. It will be the most fuel-efficient Jeep SUV ever, with the new 4xe technology offering zero tailpipe-emission in full electric mode.

Efficiency is not achieved at the expense of performance. The Jeep Renegade 4xe remains true to its all-terrain vocation while offering an enhanced driving experience on the road, with smooth responses and acceleration. The increased torque generated by the electric motor and the ability to adjust it with extreme precision ensures even greater four-wheel-drive capability on any terrain, for extreme off-road adventures.

The new plug-in hybrid electric technology elevates the capability of the Jeep Renegade by increasing off-road prowess, while also enhancing its on-road performance in everyday driving. It is not only at home on sand, mud, rocks, snow, or ice, but its capability and driving pleasure also shines through in the city.