easter jeep safari concepts 2023

2023 Easter Jeep Safari Means 7 Cool New Concepts

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For Jeepers, this is the best time of the year. Spring has arrived, and so has the Easter Jeep Safari (EJS). And with EJS comes this year’s crop of incredible concepts and product previews from Jeep. Every year, the brand manages to outdo itself, and this year is no different.

EJS is a week-long celebration of all things Jeep. Held since 1963, more than 20,000 people attended the event last year. It’s not an official Jeep brand event, but the company makes the trek to Moab along with its fans each year to celebrate the community.

This year, Jeep is bringing seven new concept vehicles to EJS — five that are like no Jeep on the road and two that hint at OEM upgrades that are likely to come to market soon.

2023 EJS Jeep Concepts

Now, let’s dive right into the 2023 EJS Jeep concepts.

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept

This is Jeep’s third kick at the all-electric concept Wrangler can. Magneto 3.0 is also the last Magneto, Jeep said. Because by next year, there will be a production electric Jeep, the Recon . And Jeep’s head of design Mark Allen said that the company will be having a go at modifying that one as soon as possible.

Magneto 3.0 still has plenty of cool upgrades. Starting with a 2-door Wrangler Rubicon, Jeep cut the roof and stretched the door openings. The front door opening is now six inches longer, and the cool new B-pillar was pushed more than two inches rearward to fit the roll bar.

The custom-built electric motor has two settings. Mild, with 285 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, and Maximum, that boots power to 650 horses and torque to 900 pound-feet. That torque figure is 50 higher than last year, and the power is still multiplied by a 6-speed manual gearbox taken from a Dodge Hellcat and then beefed up even more.

Seventy kilowatt-hours of battery are scattered in four packs around the EV. This year’s software updates give it 20 percent more range, though Jeep says this isn’t a range and charge speed exercise. It’s about using electricity to make a better off-road Jeep.

Dynatrac 60 front and 80 rear axles are fitted with 5.38:1 gearing. This year Jeep has added a new one-pedal “aggressive hill descent mode” to take full advantage of what the electric driveline can offer.

The electric motor turns 40-inch mud-terrain tires on 20-inch beadlock wheels. Magneto 3.0 has a custom 3-inch lift to make those meaty tires fit.

Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept

Jeep has built lightweight concepts for Easter Jeep Safari before. Concepts like Pork Chop, Stitch, and 4-Speed trimmed as much as half a ton from the Jeeps they were based on.

Scrambler 392 started as a 4-door Wrangler Rubicon 392 but was transformed into a 2-door. Jeep designers fitted rear bodywork from a Gladiator for a long-bed 2-door look. Then they laid back the windshield and lowered the roof, giving the rear all-new bodywork.

Under the paint, much of that bodywork is carbon fiber. The side blades, roof, and door openings are all made from the composite. The same goes for the front fenders and the hood. That helps Jeep cut 450 pounds from the Scrambler 392 concept, helping it get up and over rocks and other obstacles.

The new fenders and lightweight bumpers help the 40-inch tires fit in the arches. The 20-inch wheels and the tow hooks are painted in Brass Monkey, just like a standard Wrangler 392.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept

When Jeep launched Tuscadero Pink in 2021, it expected around 3,000 orders. Turns out that Jeep really underestimated its customer base. The company had to extend pink production by a month and still couldn’t meet all of the demand.

Instead of another year of Tuscadero, Jeep is bringing a new pink to market. The chromatic magenta hue doesn’t have a name just yet, and it will still change a bit before production, but this Jeep is meant to get feedback on the brand’s next production pink. Let them know how you feel.

The other show-off on this Jeep is the new AccuAir air suspension kit. The kit, which is also on the Scrambler 392, can lift the Jeep from 1.5 to 5.5 inches on demand. Pop it up to get through deep water or over a tough rock, or drop it to duck under overhangs. Or lower it so it’s easier to get in and out.

Other small changes include a 20th Anniversary grille and custom graphics. It wears 37-inch tires on wheels from AEV , as well as front and rear bumpers from the off-road accessory company.

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept

Jeep builds resto-mod concepts to try and inspire enthusiasts. The Cherokee 4xe is a 1978 Jeep Cherokee SJ that the company found on Craigslist for $2,500. It had a rough body and no engine, but Jeep didn’t want that old AMC mill anyway. Sorry, Jeep purists.

The Cherokee body was dropped on the chassis of a 2022 Wrangler Rubicon 4xe . That took some bodywork, like altering the wheel arches. Jeep’s designers and engineers added a ton of resto-mod-style upgrades, too, with plenty of new sheet metal. The front bumper is from a Wrangler Rubicon, and the rear is from a Gladiator.

Jeep’s intent was a modern take on the “Good Vibes” campaign Dodge ran in the 1970s, and it is right on the mark.

The rear of the Cherokee is stripped, and it has a graffiti-look ceiling. The glass is all gone to give it an open-air feel. The seats are wonderfully ’70s, there is a gas cap from an AMC Gremlin, and the dashboard is home to an 8-track player. Which, unfortunately, isn’t hooked up.

Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept

The first Easter Jeep Concept based on the new Grand Wagoneer is a bit of an overlanding condo.

Jeep’s team got hold of a RedTail Overland Skyloft hard-sided rooftop tent. Though, calling it a tent is an understatement.

The carbon fiber Skyloft is weatherproof and is heated. It has dual pane windows, an integrated diesel heater, and up to 380 watts of solar power. This level of fancy camping is just perfect for the Grand Wagoneer.

Jeep pulled out the second- and third-row seats. Then they removed the rear sunroof to make a sort of escape hatch. You can climb up through that hatch to get into the Skyloft.

The space where the seats were is now a lounge. It still has the Grand Wagoneer’s rear seat entertainment system. It also has two big beanbag chairs, a plush throw rug, and ambient lighting. It’s nicer (and larger) than my first three apartments.

Widened wheel openings and new flares help fit 35-inch tires on custom wheels. The larger tires raise the ride height an inch and a half. The Grand Wagoneer has a black Rhino-lined roof, and the body is painted in an industrial green.

Oh yeah, and the Grand Wagoneer has frickin’ laser beams! Jeep fitted laser-powered off-road lamps in the tweaked front bumper to light up the night.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept

Departure is the first of the two concepts that promote parts Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) might build. The Departure gets a cool new tubular spare tire mount that can flip. Turn the spare into the trunk for a better departure angle, and turn it out for more cargo space. Whichever you need.

The Departure concept also gets a new tubular grille guard. The guard quickly folds down to give you a four-foot bench seat for relaxing on the trail.

Windshield header-mount off-road lights fold upward on custom brackets. So they’ll still work with the window folded forward. There are rock lights at all four corners, JPP hard MOLLE panels in the roll bar, and new flat fender flares that hold bigger tires while staying street-legal for lighting requirements.

This one also has a Jeep Performance Parts 2.0-inch lift with Bilstein remote reservoir shocks. The 17-inch wheels wear 37-inch tires.

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept

Last but not least is the Sideburn concept. It gets the same 2.0-inch lift and shocks as Departure. It also has a folding grille guard bench and Warn winch .

Sideburn’s coolest bits are at the back. The sport bar is actually a two-tier cargo shelf. It’s made from carbon fiber and steel and has integrated steps to let you get to your stored gear. Eight tie-down loops let you lock in cargo totes.

The box sides are also super cool. Built-in MOLLE panels above and behind the arches give you more secure storage. There are integrated RotoPaX containers, too, letting you store liquids on the outside of the box. Other JPP bits include a heavy-duty vinyl floor system, side steps, grab handles, and half doors.

2023 Easter Jeep Safari Concepts

Jeep will bring all of the concepts to the trail at the 57th Annual Easter Jeep Safari on April 1-9. We’ll even get to drive them, so you can expect our up-close and personal take with more details and interior shots on these seven sweet rides very soon.

What's It Like Behind the Wheel of Jeep's EJS Concepts? We Have the Answers

We just went off-roading in Jeep's latest concept vehicles in Moab at the world's most well-known Jeep gathering, Easter Jeep Safari. Read more…

Evan Williams has been drooling over cars since the time he learned to walk. He went to school for engineering, but transitioned into a more satisfying career in automotive and outdoor media, and has been at it for nearly a decade now. Evan is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and is the Motors News Lead at GearJunkie. He spends his non-automotive time walking his dog, hiking, cycling, jogging, and trying not to be too much of a hack mechanic.

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Just a Ton of Photos of the 2023 Easter Jeep Safari Concept Rigs

• Beyond Cars

From a restomod 1978 full-size Cherokee to an all-electric Wrangler with a six-speed stick, these are the concepts Jeep built for this year's EJS.

Yesterday, we gave you all the details on the seven concept rigs Jeep built for this year’s Easter Jeep Safari , ranging from an all-electric Wrangler with 650 horsepower and a stick-shift to a restomodded 1978 SJ Cherokee with the guts from a plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe. Jeep gave us a ton of photos of these concepts, so we figured we’d put them all in one place for you to ogle. Enjoy!

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept

Yep, that’s a charger plug at the base of the windshield of this 1978 Cherokee. Jeep found a vintage body and stretched and shaped it to fit over a 2022 Wrangler Rubicon 4xe chassis. The result: A plug-in hybrid ‘78 Cherokee.

The concept drawing is amazing.

The stripes scream ‘70s vintage, but I especially love the ventilated tailgate. The blue tow hooks let you know it’s a 4xe.

Inside, Jeep worked the modern Wrangler dashboard into the vintage body, and sprayed graffiti on the ceiling.

SLIDE #101978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept

This is the third version of this concept: An all-electric Wrangler that still packs a six-speed manual transmission. Now it’s got 650 hp and 900 lb-ft of torque.

I love the peekaboo hood showing off the EV circuitry.

Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept

Like the original CJ8 Scrambler, this is a short-bed pickup built on Wrangler bones — in this case, the bones of a formerly four-door Wrangler Rubicon.

Jeep stuffed a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 under the hood of this concept, hence the “392" name.

392 2-door, get it?

Gaze in wonder at that big burly V8, conveniently displayed.

Jeep loves a loud plaid pattern, and I love that for Jeep.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept

This one isn’t really so much a concept as it is a test bed: After the success of the one-year-only Tuscadero paint color in 2021 (a sort of purple-pink hue), Jeep wanted to see the reaction to an even more vivid pink/purple.

Jeep describes this color as “chromatic magenta,” and says designers “decided it was time to flip the color’s perception and make it a lot tougher than expected.”

The color really pops in sunshine. I dig it!

Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept

How about a vanlife Wagoneer? It’s got the rooftop tent, the auxiliary lighting, and the beefy wheel-and-tire package to get you to those gorgeous vistas your Instagram needs.

That’s a custom RedTail Overland Skyloft, made of carbon fiber and supposedly light enough to open with one hand.

Man, I hope that plaid upholstery comes to the production Wagoneer. Coupled with the caramel and wood grain, it feels like a hunting cabin you can drive.

The rooftop tent has solar panels to operate a climate-control fan and lights. The succulents probably don’t come with it.

Jeep yanked out the second and third row seats and busted open the rear sunroof to create a pass-through to the tent. The cargo area feels like a well-appointed millennial apartment.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept

This one was built to show off a bunch of parts you can get from the Jeep Performance Parts catalog, like that grille guard and those tube doors.

I really dig the midnight blue paint coupled with the pumpkin interior.

That tailgate / spare tire carrier combo is pretty nifty: It replaces the regular tailgate and allows the spare tire to tuck into the cargo area for better off-road clearance. Or, you can flip the tire out to get a little extra cargo space, like a bed extender on a pickup truck.

The high-clearance fender flares are custom; the fronts integrate the DRLs and turn signals so they’re street legal.

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept

Jeep loves a silly name for a concept truck, and Sideburn might be the silliest. The name comes from the black side steps behind the rear doors, which give you access to some custom storage in the bed of this pickup.

We got jerry cans, we got a full-size spare, we got hard cases belted to a shelf. We got everything.

There’s even a MOLLE grid to strap even more stuff to this rig.

2023 Easter Jeep Safari Concepts

Easter Jeep Safari runs from April 1-9 in Moab, Utah. If you go, you’ll be able to see all these Jeep concepts. And if you clicked this far in this slideshow, thank you.

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Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept Headlines 2023 Easter Jeep Safari Builds

By Caleb Jacobs

Posted on Mar 30, 2023 12:01 AM EDT

11 minute read

Easter Jeep Safari is a time when thousands of Jeeps descend on Moab, Utah, for some wicked off-roading. Jeep builds a fleet of concepts each year to show off the latest and greatest in 4×4 prototypes, and it’s bringing an impressive mix of rigs to the 2023 shindig. The Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept may be the neatest of the bunch, along with the 650-horsepower Wrangler Magneto 3.0 and 1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe.

All right. I can’t lie. They’re all pretty sweet.

Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept

As much as we all love modified Wranglers and Gladiators, it’s cool to see another kind of Jeep get some mod love. In this case, it’s a top-shelf Grand Wagoneer with the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six making 510 hp and 500 pound-feet of torque. It sends all that twist through an eight-speed automatic before eventually reaching all four tires, which have been upgraded to 35-inch BF Goodrich rollers wrapped around custom 18-inch wheels.

The truck’s stance is already pretty sweet, with a modest 1.5-inch lift to boot. It needed that extra clearance for the larger tires, along with some additional trimming that you might not want to perform on your own $100,000 family car.

Either way, Jeep went for it and created this slick rig that’s topped off with a RedTail Overland Skyloft. It’s a hard-shell tent that’s climate controlled with enough sleeping space for two people. Jeep created a pass-through entrance by removing the Grand Wagoneer’s second and third-row seats, opening up the sunroof for easy accessibility. Neat stuff!

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept

If you like clicking through page after page of Craigslist ads, just know Jeep does too. That’s how the automaker’s engineers found the 1978 Cherokee donor truck for this throwback concept. It was in rough shape with no engine when they found it, but that didn’t matter because it was always destined for a complete swap anyhow.

The handsome two-door now sits atop a Wrangler 4xe chassis and powertrain. That means it’s propelled by a hybridized 2.0-liter turbo making 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed auto and 4:1 transfer case distribute power to all four 37-inch tires, which gives the modernized Cherokee impressive clearance.

A lot of attention was paid to detail inside too, with vibrantly colored materials, a four-point cage where the rear seats used to be, and a full-size spare tire.

Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept

This is the mack daddy, if you ask me. What started off as a four-door Wrangler Rubicon was then cut into the shape you see here with a lower roof and raked windshield. The Scrambler 392 Concept wears carbon fiber body panels that help remove a huge chunk of weight, and these savings are complemented by a rowdy 6.4-liter Hemi V8 making 470 hp and 470 pound-feet of torque.

It harkens back to the original CJ-8 Scrambler , which was like the Jeep CJ-7 but featured a longer wheelbase. Like the old one, this new build has a decent amount of cargo space out back where you’ll find a brightly painted luggage rack rather than a traditional bed. It sits on 40-inch tires and AccuAir adjustable suspension, meaning the lift ranges anywhere from 1.5 to 5.5 inches.

I know Jeep would never put the Scrambler 392 Concept into production, but I’m always stoked to see extreme projects like this actually get built.

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept

Speaking of extreme projects, the Wrangler Magneto 3.0 might be the most out-there of all these. It’s a tweaked version of the electric Wrangler off-roader we’ve seen at the past two Easter Jeep Safaris, but slightly different. This year, it has two power modes to choose from: 285 hp and 273 lb-ft or 650 hp and 900 lb-ft.

That’s possible thanks to a new and more efficient motor design that, when paired with improved programming, results in 20% more usable energy and range. The Wrangler Magneto still uses a six-speed manual transmission , though half of those gears are more for vanity. You don’t have to use the clutch so you could shift into third and take off from a stop without stalling it. What’s more, it makes it a whole lot easier to modulate the throttle on rocky trails when you don’t have to worry about killing it.

Finally, the Wrangler Magneto 3.0 has a new hill descent mode that’s especially aggressive. When in low range, it can be engaged to provide a true one-pedal experience. If you’ve been on a technical trail before, you know how big of an advantage that provides.

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept

While this show build is a little tamer, it’s still heavily modified for extreme utility. The Gladiator Sideburn Concept has an obviously reworked bed that’s packed with MOLLE panels and built-in storage. Integrated RotoPax containers provide space to stash liquids of all kinds, and there’s a Mopar spare tire carrier back there that also fits a full-size 37 with ease.

The bed-mounted JPP sport bar is just a concept for now, but here’s hoping it’ll make it to production someday with its carbon fiber and steel construction. It features a mid-shelf that includes tie-down spots for totes, while a set of four T-track rails means it’s easy to mount a bike, kayak, or what have you as well.

Instead of some kooky engine upgrade, the Gladiator Sideburn Concept uses the tried and true 3.6-liter V6.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept

Closing out the group is a tube-door Wrangler with an awesomely contrasted color scheme. The Wrangle Rubicon 4xe Departure’s dark blue paint job looks great against the rich brown leather interior, and the bronze wheels pull it all together. But take a closer look up front.

See that grille? It folds down into a bench. I can’t think of a better spot to lounge on the side of a trail, or around a campfire. It’s like a tailgate for the front. It’d be nice to have a wraparound cushion, but beggars can’t be choosers.

Tubular rock sliders keep the theme going, as does the flip-over tire carrier that allows you to store your spare inside the trunk or right above the back bumper.

Easter Jeep Safari kicks off April 1. Pay attention to social media to see these rigs crawl around Moab over the weekend, and look for more coverage here if anything goes fantastically wrong or right.

Got a tip or question for the author? Contact the author directly: [email protected]

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Jeep® Brand Hits the Trails at 57th Annual Easter Jeep Safari With Collection of New Concepts

• Impressive lineup of Easter Jeep Safari concepts from Jeep® heading to Moab, Utah, April 1-9
• Seven one-of-a-kind Jeep concept vehicles take four-wheeling to the next level and prove why there’s nothing quite like legendary Jeep 4x4 capability
• Jeep brand’s mission of Zero Emission Freedom takes charge with four new electrified concept vehicles, including the reimagined Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0
• All concept vehicles are equipped with an array of advanced powertrains and showcase the latest prototype and production parts
• Output select allows the driver to choose between two power settings (standard: 285 horsepower/273 lb.-ft. of torque; maximum: 650 horsepower/900 lb.-ft. of torque) 
• Two-stage power regeneration mode allows normal driving while off, or enhanced brake regeneration using the electric motor when engaged  
• Aggressive hill descent mode can be selected in low range to offer true ‘one pedal’ off-road driving in serious rock-crawling situations

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Running Footage: 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep® Safari

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept | 2023 Easter Jeep Safari

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2023 Easter Jeep Safari

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Photo credit, bryon dorr & jeep, share article, jeep’s 2023 easter safari concepts: off-roading the boldest concepts in moab, 2023 easter jeep safari jeep concepts drive.

Every year Jeep debuts a handful of concept cars at Easter Jeep Safari (EJS) in Moab. And, every year they have a few select media out to drive all the concepts off-road before they go on display to the public. This is a bold move that you don’t see from any other auto manufacturer. Not only are the concept vehicles running, driving, and properly off-road capable, but they get used in the environment they were built for, even before going on display at shows across the country.

Of course, Moab in the spring can dish out some interesting weather, and this year it sure did. We saw a mix of snow, sleet, hail, a bit of rain, lots of wind, and even some perfect sunshine, all in the span of a few hours. Making that weather and this concept drive all that much more interesting is the fact that all seven concepts for 2023 were open top and/or had at most half-doors. Battling the weather is part of the fun though, and the sunny breaks in the weather with big fluffy white clouds, blue skies, and snow-capped mountain backdrops made Moab come alive.

Bundled up in many layers I managed to slip behind the wheel of all seven 2023 EJS Jeep concepts for a drive. While the Grand Wagoneer Overland, all-electric and six-speed manual Magneto 3.0, and retro cool ’78 Cherokee 4Xe got most of the attention this year, it was the bright green 392 Scrambler that really impressed me. Let’s dive into what each 2023 Jeep concept has to offer, including the driving experience.

392 Scrambler Concept

The 392 Scrambler impressed me from behind the wheel because it was an absolute off-road monster. Out of all the concepts, this is the one I’d want to have in my garage if I lived someplace like Moab where I could regularly exercise it on the trail. With massive 40-inch mud-terrains, a growly 6.4L V8 under the see-through hood, no doors, and 452 pounds less weight than the JLU it is based on, the 392 Scrambler is just an impressive and usable package.

“The ‘80s Jeep Scrambler (CJ-8) is one of the coolest vehicles to ever make it to production from Jeep, and the inspiration for this modern concept.”

The ‘80s Jeep Scrambler (CJ-8) is one of the coolest vehicles to ever make it to production from Jeep, and the inspiration for this modern concept. What’s not to like about a two-door, short-bed, convertible Jeep truck? Add a big, powerful, and oh-so-awesome sounding V8, aggressive custom carbon body panels, and a Gladiator trailgate and you have a recipe for cool and capable.

Nearly every Jeep concept has an easter egg, or three. On the 392 Scrambler concept, there was a red button on the driver’s side fender that read ‘Do Not Press.’ I, of course, had to press it, which activated a very loud air horn.

Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept

Take the luxury of a new Grand Wagoneer, the capability benefits of 35-inch tires, and the sleeping comfort of a Redtail Overland Skyloft and you get Jeep’s latest overland concept. The second and third rows have been removed and replaced with a chill lounge, which works great in conjunction with the massive headrest-mounted screens and third-row sunroof delete/hatch entry for the Skyloft.

The 35-inch tires just look right on the Grand Wagoneer and also add ground clearance and traction. The team at Jeep retained the stock adjustable air suspension, with no additional lift, but had to heavily massage the fenders and wheel well liners. At normal ride height, the tires did rub a bit when turning, especially if the big vehicle was articulated at all off-road.

The 300-ish pounds of carbon fiber roof-top camper system was noticeable from behind the wheel, as the vehicle swayed considerably more than normal when traversing uneven terrain. The flip side of that coin is the super luxury heated, cooled, and powered-up hard-sided sleeping area that the Redtail Overland Skyloft offers once you get to camp.

Wrangler Magneto 3.0

Let’s start with the numbers; 625 horsepower, 850 lb.-ft. of torque, 40-inch tires, and a six-speed manual transmission. Add in an EVO long arm kit, King shocks, AirLockers, and built Dana axels and you have one impressive Jeep. Magneto 3.0 is the third and last fully electric Wrangler JL concept.

No, we’ll never see a manual transmission make it to production on an electric Jeep. The manual is just a cool concept feature and helped show Jeep engineers that they probably need two to three gears versus just one — like most EVs — in a fully electric trail-rated production Jeep, for better off-road slow speed-controlled crawling.

“When stationary just select a gear with the shifter, no clutch required, and hit the go pedal to get moving.”

Speaking of rock crawling, Magneto 3.0 even has a one-pedal drive mode, which makes acing slow-speed difficult off-road terrain easy, smooth, and oh-so controllable. While you don’t need to change gears ever, at least if you’re in Third gear, it is fun to row the gears. Fourth is fun when bombing sandy two-track and Second is perfect for crawling, but outside of that range, the other gears aren’t all that useful but do work. When stationary just select a gear with the shifter, no clutch required, and hit the go pedal to get moving. Once moving you do have to use the clutch pedal to change gears, but you’re just selecting a gear, so you don’t need to, and shouldn’t, slip the clutch while giving it throttle.

’78 Cherokee 4xe

The ’78 Cherokee 4xe by far turned the most heads. From behind the wheel, it was just a JLU Rubicon 4xe on 37s. While refined and capable, the driving experience didn’t match the ‘70s retro cool vibes. The stock steering wheel and seats, besides custom cover materials, didn’t help make it feel special from the driver’s seat. It did look and feel special from every other angle, however.

This concept was created over 2 years by blending a rusted out old ’78 Cherokee body with a brand-new Wrangler Rubicon 4xe everything else. I really love how cleanly the stock Rubicon winch bumper is integrated into the Cherokee grille and the 4xe charge plug and hood latches are integrated into the Cherokee hood. While the roof looks chopped down from stock, it is actually just a bit thinner. It’s made of carbon fiber and helps create an overall sleek and modern take on the classic Cherokee.

This resto-mod Jeep offered everything from roll-up windows to an 8-track player, and even a graffiti headliner. It is a concept vehicle though, which means the 8-track wasn’t wired up and the roll-up window handles hit the dash, so were inoperable when the doors were closed. The classic paint job and retro-looking classic 17-inch wheels, with classic Jeep logo center caps, really bring it all together and help get this concept noticed from afar.

Pink Rubicon 4xe

The pink Jeep concept is all about the color, and not the driving experience. It is not the sold-out, super popular, and now discontinued Tuscadero Pink, but a new shade of pink you’re likely to see find its way into production soon. It drove exactly like you’d think a JLU Rubicon 4xe on 37s would. The only difference is the AccuAir air suspension system, which at mid-ride height I found to be a bit soft. Jacked all the way up — it has a change-on-the-fly range of 1.5 to 5.5 inches of lift — it provided a smooth dampened ride similar to what you’d expect from a traditional suspension setup.

Jeep didn’t even give this Jeep a fun nickname, as I think someone in legal or marketing didn’t think the “kink” theme the build was headed in was a good idea. How do I know it had a “kink” theme you ask? Well, in early teaser images of the build the seats were covered in leopard print (which were changed out before the Jeep’s public viewing), the shifter boots were made of shiny black vinyl, and the glove box was lined with fake pink fur and was full of a bottle of Kink branded gin.

The Sideburn concept is basically just a really well-done up-fitted Gladiator Rubicon, with a trick custom bed. Fun colors inside and out, half doors, 37-inch BFGs, HRE wheels, and a smooth-riding 2-inch Bilstein lift make this Jeep truck look good and work over any terrain.

“The custom carbon and steel truck bed is what gives the truck its nickname and really makes it interesting.”

The custom carbon and steel truck bed is what gives the truck its nickname and really makes it interesting. Custom side steps go up each side and are part of the integrated Sport Bar, which also features a shelf with secure weatherproof storage boxes. The rest of the bed includes cutouts with integrated MOLLE panels and integrated RotoPax water/fuel holders.

A custom 4-foot-wide fold-down tubular grille guard also helps the Sideburn concept stand out from the crowd. Not only does this part offer great radiator protection from animal strikes and the like, but it can also be used as a bench seat for up to two people.

The Departure concept gets the same flip-down grille guard as the Sideburn, but the similarities pretty much stop there. If you were to throw the parts catalog from Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) at a 4-door Wrangler Rubicon 4xe, the Departure concept is what you’d get. Your attempt at that probably wouldn’t create such a tidy Jeep, however. This very well-sorted-out, open-air build features a lot of tubular parts — tube grille, doors, tailgate, and more — and a custom paint job that flows into the interior. It drives exactly as you’d expect a Wrangler 4xe with a quality 2-inch Bilstein lift on 37s would.

A tubular tailgate that has a spare tire mount that pivots 180-degrees is where this concept gets its name. When the spare is flipped forward it sits inside the cargo area of the Jeep, offering up a better departure angle. Also custom on this build are a windshield mounted lighting system, rear quarter MOLLE panels, and custom flat-fender flares and wheel liners. The flares and liners offer up tons of clearance while also offering 50-state legal tire coverage and integrated, removable daytime-running lights.

Editor’s Note: A version of this article appeared in TREAD   July/August 2023.

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DRIVEN: Our Favorite Concepts from Easter Jeep Safari 2023

We drove all seven rigs, but walked away really loving four of them.

• Jeep brought seven new concepts to this year's Easter Jeep Safari drive in Moab, Utah.
• The concepts utilize both custom-manufactured parts and off-the-shelf bits.
• We drove all of them and whittled down our list of favorites.

Every year tens of thousands of people descend upon the unassuming town of Moab, Utah, for a wheeling meetup like no other. Easter Jeep Safari is the quintessential Jeep gathering where old faithful models from World War II mingle with the latest and greatest that Jeep and the aftermarket can cobble together.

However, it’s the concepts that the company rolls out that really garner attention. For 2023, Jeep showed off seven ideas that span the gamut from fully electric to stonking V8 power; from high-dollar overlanding to a nostalgia cocktail restomod. After driving all of them, these were our favorites.

Am I Ready for an EV?

• EV ownership works best if you can charge (240V) at home or at work This typically means a 240V home installation, but you could also have a similar setup at your office or other places your car is already parked for several hours each day. Don't expect a regular household outlet (120V) to suffice unless you've got a plug-in hybrid, in which case overnight charging at home is feasible.
• If you can’t charge at home, charging at a charging station could take at least 10x longer than at a gas station With public charging infrastructure still in its infancy, the user experience can be maddeningly inconsistent. Tesla owners tend to rave about the reliability and speed of the company's proprietary Supercharger stations, but rival DC fast options have thus far been plagued by technical issues and overcrowding. It's an evolving landscape and our best advice is to do your research on the available options for the EV you want to buy.
• Adding a 240V home charging system could cost up to $1,600 or more If your existing electrical service can handle the additional demands of EV charging, you may be able to add Level 2 charging at home for less than a grand, including installation. But your costs will multiply if you need to upgrade your electrical panel or add a dedicated circuit.

Scrambler 392

What happens when you combine the Jeep Wrangler 392 with its 6.4-liter V8 powertrain and a tiny bit of a Jeep Gladiator pickup truck? You get the Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept. Designers started with a four-door 392 but turned it into a two-door, then added the last 10 inches or so of a Gladiator to turn it into a truck, complete with a functioning tailgate.

The team included massive 40-inch Maxxis MT tires, but also added lightness by swapping out the stock hood, fenders and rear quarter panels for replicas made out of carbon fiber. The crowning glory here are the Bilstein shocks with AccuAir suspension that can give the Scrambler 392 a lift of up to 5.5 inches with the push of a button.

With tires this big, the Scrambler can pretty much handle any hole or bump you throw at it, but with its low four-wheel-drive range it’s easy to make short work of rocky hill climbs. However, with 470 ponies and an equal amount of torque on tap, it’s easy for newbies to drive too fast. Remember, when rock crawling your mantra should be, “As slow as possible, and as fast as necessary.”

Smoother sections are pretty fun thanks to the responsive throttle, but there is a caveat here. Remember that added clearance doesn’t necessarily translate into added wheel travel. You need long-travel shocks to do that, so I wouldn’t consider the Scrambler a whoop-eater. It would likely shred on a dry lake bed, though!

1978 Cherokee 4xe

My nostalgia nodules are in full effect as soon as I touch the door handle of the 1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept. Instead of the beefy, plastic handle of a modern vehicle, I grab a thin metal handle and push a button with my thumb. The door opens with a creak and closes with a hollow slam. These are the doors of my childhood.

Jeep designers bought the 1978 Cherokee SJ on Craigslist and threw the body on top of a 2022 Wrangler Rubicon 4xe. Wheelwells are filled out by 37-inch BFGoodrich MT tires and there are all kinds of thoughtful '70s-inspired touches. The yellow paint with orange and red accents is on point, as are the slotted mag wheels and 4xe badging in 1970s-era font.

Driving this one is a bit of a trip thanks to the ridiculously large hood. Granted, our quick drive route is not difficult, but I would likely want a spotter to help me up any advanced obstacles, as my front wheels feel like they are all the way in Colorado.

The dash is all modern Wrangler, and honestly, it feels wrong to have such a thick steering wheel in my hands. I’m aching for one of those skinny ones with the finger indents around it. However, the 8-track installed where the window controls are typically located is choice (albeit nonfunctional). The Cherokee still has its roll-up windows, but they are permanently fixed in the down position as the dash is too bulky to allow the handles to move.

Still, the rig brings out a smile on my face. It’s not the quickest of the lot, nor does it have a fancy suspension or a massive lift. It’s just cool.

Grand Wagoneer Overland

To prove Jeep can hang with the bougie crowd, the company showed off the Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept. The most surprising thing here is how good the beast looks with 35-inch BFGoodrich MT tires. Seriously, I’d wheel the stuffing out of this thing with those shoes!

Aside from the requisite winch and lights, this concept is graced by a Redtail Overland Skyloft rooftop tent that can retail for up to $30,000. Yes, that’s correct. Thirty Gs for a tent. But hey, if you want a hard-sided, solar-powered carbon-fiber rooftop tent with charging ports, dual-pane windows, a heater and an air conditioner with easy setup and breakdown, you’re going to pay.

The tent is accessed through a side ladder or from the interior, where Jeep removed the second and third rows, created a trapdoor out of the sunroof opening, and fashioned a living room of sorts, complete with beanbags, throw pillows and a plush rug. Step on a side table to get through the roof and into the loft area.

I love the plaid wool flannel on the front seats, and before I start off, I crank up the heat and turn on the massage feature. The Grand Wagoneer is a bit easier to drive since its four-wheel-drive system isn’t quite as aggressive as the Wrangler's. Here the shift from first to second is smooth whereas in the Wrangler it can be a bit abrupt.

However, the decreased approach and breakover angles mean I have to pick my line carefully. A few folks scrape the front skid plate a bit, although I don’t have a problem. The tent weighs around 300 pounds and I hardly feel it up there when the Wagoneer gets a little tippy on a rock climb. Under the hood is Jeep’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane 510 engine with — you guessed it — 510 horsepower.

Wrangler Magneto 3.0

But if I have to pick a favorite, it’s the all-electric Magneto 3.0. This is the third and final year for the Magneto but it’s got more power and range than its previous iterations. Based on a 2020 two-door Wrangler Rubicon chassis, the Magneto gets a raked windshield, wider door openings, 40-inch tires and a six-speed manual transmission.

I have to think of the transmission as a speed limiter in order to understand it, since the Magneto is capable of starting in any gear. For slow-speed rock crawling, first or second gear is appropriate. For faster desert running, third or fourth would allow for enough speed, while highway driving should be done in the top two gears.

To drive it I have to push in the clutch and put the Magneto in gear. I chose third gear at first. Then, instead of slipping the clutch like I would on my own ICE vehicle, I just let the clutch out fully and then hit the throttle. It’s tough to get used to, but once I do, it’s pretty dope. I can row through the gears if I want, essentially dumping the clutch on every upshift, but it’s not necessary.

When I get to the steep hill climb, I put it in first gear, again to obey the “as slow as possible, as fast as necessary” rule, and the Magneto climbs right up. I mean, it would be hard not to with 650 horsepower and 900 lb-ft of torque, am I right?

However, like the Scrambler 392 concept, the Magneto doesn’t have a vast amount of wheel travel, so it’s tough to use all the power out here in the rocks and whoops. To exploit what’s coming out of the single electric motor I would definitely need a dry lake bed or airport runway.

Now that’s an idea. U-Drag between the Magneto 3.0 and Scrambler 392, anyone?

Edmunds says

All of the concepts that Jeep brought to the Easter Jeep Safari drive were great in their own way. But these stood out from the rest.

Articles written by Emme Hall. Visit edmunds.com for the latest car news and reviews.

Is an EV right for me?

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2023 Easter Jeep Safari Concepts

It's that time of year again. Jeep's annual Easter Safari kicks off the first week of April, and as in (most) years past, the 4x4 builder is on location with a collection of concept trucks that may or may not hint at future options, accessories — and maybe even entire vehicles. Looking at you, Magneto. This year's mix includes a return of that electric project truck (now in version 3.0), along with four other in-house designs from the Jeep team. Jeep Performance Parts tagged along as usual with two more builds of their own. We'll have more from the field once we get a chance to play around with Jeep's toys in Moab. Let's dive in. Jeep Wrangler 4xe **** Officially, the Wrangler 4xe **** has no name. Jeep refers to it only as the 'Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept.' Its name — like its paint finish — appears to have been redacted. But if you're the type of Jeeper who likes to be strapped firmly in place for a little fun in the dirt, the **** might be right up your alley. Its PHEV powertrain allows you to **** responsibly and it even comes with augmented straps and buckles, a fur-lined glovebox and various other toys meant to heighten the experience. The **** is even fitted with an active air suspension that adds between 1.5 and 5.5 inches. Of ground clearance. **** yeah! Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept Yep, Magneto's back. This will be its third and final outing, Jeep says, and based on how little it has changed since last year, we're comfortable with Jeep calling this one finished. There's only a slight bump in power this year; it gets another 25 horses and 50 pound-feet of torque, for a total of 650 and 900, respectively. But it did sprout a new set of drive modes that give you finer control over the output of its electric motors. Its standard setting dials the total oomph back to just 285 hp and 273 lb.-ft. That's both the rated power output of Jeep's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and a subtle nod to the Magneto 1.0, which used those figures as its baseline. And yep, it still has a six-speed manual. 1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept If this one gives you Jeep Chief vibes, you're not alone. What started life as a craigslist dumpster fire of a 1978 Cherokee is powered by a modern 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. You'll need that torque to turn the massive 37s fitted to all four corners. Inside, there's an 8-track player and a secret stash box. What exactly is the secret stash box, you ask? It's a secret. Duh.  Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept The 392 Scrambler 'adds lightness' to the V8-powered Wrangler formula. The 392 is currently available only as a four-door, but this concept looks at what kind of performance machine you could make by trimming the fat off of Jeep's big bruiser. While it still rides on the 392's standard four-door wheelbase, the Scrambler has been chopped down and shortened to further concentrate its mass near its center. It's fitted with multiple custom carbon-fiber exterior body panels; most of the rest were just stripped off completely. The blue plaid interior came out of the just-for-fun bin, as Jeep's engineers say the Scrambler's only real mission is being 'real rowdy-fast.' Grand Wagoneer 'Camp Lux' Overland Concept' I swore I'd never do another roof tent,' Jeep boss Mark Allen opened with. Well, so much for that. The Wagoneer checks in with an overlanding-inspired concept based on Mopar's new twin-turbocharged I6 engine. Its rear seats have been stripped away to open up the interior for supplies, people and pets, and it has been fitted with 35-inch tires for more go-anywhere capability.  JPP Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept The first of Jeep Performance Parts' two builds is the Sideburn concept, which gets its name from the armor on its rear fender. It features a utilitarian bed setup lifted from the company's catalog, a fold-down brush guard that doubles as a bench (so you can tailgate from both ends) and has on-board fuel and water storage.  JPP Jeep Wrangler 4xe Departure Concept This one's about as down-to-earth as they come, and frankly this blue-over-tan look is rather pretty. This is another Jeep Performance Parts showcase, and the truck wears a mix of existing accessory parts and conceptual additions. The Sideburn's fold-down brush guard returns and it gains several other accessories, including a convertible tube tailgate, custom fender flares, Molle panels, and a new accesory mounting system for the dashboard. Yeah, we've seen that somewhere. For more info visit www.autoblog.com #Jeep #easterjeepsafari #jeepconcepts #jeepwrangler #moab #suv #wrangler #cherokee #jeepcherokee #grandwagoneer #jeepgrandwagoneer #grandwagoneer #jeepgladiator #gladiator

It's that time of year again. Jeep's annual Easter Safari kicks off the first week of April, and as in (most) years past, the 4x4 builder is on location with a collection of concept trucks that may or may not hint at future options, accessories — and maybe even entire vehicles. Looking at you, Magneto. This year's mix includes a return of that electric project truck (now in version 3.0), along with four other in-house designs from the Jeep team. Jeep Performance Parts tagged along as usual with two more builds of their own. We'll have more from the field once we get a chance to play around with Jeep's toys in Moab. Let's dive in. Jeep Wrangler 4xe **** Officially, the Wrangler 4xe **** has no name. Jeep refers to it only as the "Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept." Its name — like its paint finish — appears to have been redacted. But if you're the type of Jeeper who likes to be strapped firmly in place for a little fun in the dirt, the **** might be right up your alley. Its PHEV powertrain allows you to **** responsibly and it even comes with augmented straps and buckles, a fur-lined glovebox and various other toys meant to heighten the experience. The **** is even fitted with an active air suspension that adds between 1.5 and 5.5 inches. Of ground clearance. **** yeah! Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept Yep, Magneto's back. This will be its third and final outing, Jeep says, and based on how little it has changed since last year, we're comfortable with Jeep calling this one finished. There's only a slight bump in power this year; it gets another 25 horses and 50 pound-feet of torque, for a total of 650 and 900, respectively. But it did sprout a new set of drive modes that give you finer control over the output of its electric motors. Its standard setting dials the total oomph back to just 285 hp and 273 lb.-ft. That's both the rated power output of Jeep's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and a subtle nod to the Magneto 1.0, which used those figures as its baseline. And yep, it still has a six-speed manual. 1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept If this one gives you Jeep Chief vibes, you're not alone. What started life as a craigslist dumpster fire of a 1978 Cherokee is powered by a modern 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. You'll need that torque to turn the massive 37s fitted to all four corners. Inside, there's an 8-track player and a secret stash box. What exactly is the secret stash box, you ask? It's a secret. Duh.  Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept The 392 Scrambler "adds lightness" to the V8-powered Wrangler formula. The 392 is currently available only as a four-door, but this concept looks at what kind of performance machine you could make by trimming the fat off of Jeep's big bruiser. While it still rides on the 392's standard four-door wheelbase, the Scrambler has been chopped down and shortened to further concentrate its mass near its center. It's fitted with multiple custom carbon-fiber exterior body panels; most of the rest were just stripped off completely. The blue plaid interior came out of the just-for-fun bin, as Jeep's engineers say the Scrambler's only real mission is being "real rowdy-fast." Grand Wagoneer "Camp Lux" Overland Concept" I swore I'd never do another roof tent," Jeep boss Mark Allen opened with. Well, so much for that. The Wagoneer checks in with an overlanding-inspired concept based on Mopar's new twin-turbocharged I6 engine. Its rear seats have been stripped away to open up the interior for supplies, people and pets, and it has been fitted with 35-inch tires for more go-anywhere capability.  JPP Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept The first of Jeep Performance Parts' two builds is the Sideburn concept, which gets its name from the armor on its rear fender. It features a utilitarian bed setup lifted from the company's catalog, a fold-down brush guard that doubles as a bench (so you can tailgate from both ends) and has on-board fuel and water storage.  JPP Jeep Wrangler 4xe Departure Concept This one's about as down-to-earth as they come, and frankly this blue-over-tan look is rather pretty. This is another Jeep Performance Parts showcase, and the truck wears a mix of existing accessory parts and conceptual additions. The Sideburn's fold-down brush guard returns and it gains several other accessories, including a convertible tube tailgate, custom fender flares, Molle panels, and a new accesory mounting system for the dashboard. Yeah, we've seen that somewhere. For more info visit www.autoblog.com #Jeep #easterjeepsafari #jeepconcepts #jeepwrangler #moab #suv #wrangler #cherokee #jeepcherokee #grandwagoneer #jeepgrandwagoneer #grandwagoneer #jeepgladiator #gladiator

MARK ALLEN: 2023, this is the third and final iteration of our ongoing Magneto project where we created a fully battery-electric, fully mission-capable Wrangler. For this year, we've added a lot more to the powertrain, but I'll walk you around the exterior first.

Starting up front, we've got our Rubicon 20th grille on here. The hood, carbon-fiber hood, carbon-fiber fenders, leaving it up on 40-inch tires, which we introduced last year-- also when we extended the wheelbase. But then this year we've raked the windshield back, effectively chopped the top, created a new roof for it with this great blue see through on it. Reupholstered the interior, updated the color scheme on the outside, and really gives it this aggressive, cool, off-road look to it.

Third and final iteration of Magneto functionally is still a fully battery-electric vehicle connected to a six-speed manual transmission. New for '23, has a more efficient axial flux motor. We have 20% more range. Increased torque now-- from 850 last year, we're up to 900 foot-pound torque. Also a 20% increase in usable energy from the battery.

We've also added selectable drive modes, the first being a regen, so off or medium, more for street driving. And then a separate aggressive regenerative mode in four wheel drive low only, which offers one-pedal driving. Imagine going down a very, very steep hill and having to throttle to go down the hill without the brakes.

And then a two-stage selectable power output. So baseline 285 horsepower, which matches the gas V6 this vehicle was originally equipped with or the electric full-beans 900 foot-pounds torque.

This happens to be the JPP product showcase car. This is called the Departure, and it has a lot of really great features. Some of them are prototype. Some of them are available now, so it's sort of a mix. And we use the Moab to show this off.

First up front is this bumper bench. So this grill guard flips down. You can sit on that. Prototype fender flares-- these are a flat-style fender flare. 37-inch tire. Great color scheme on this vehicle, including this beautiful saddle-leather interior. Tube doors, lighting, extra storage to it.

And on the back of the vehicle shows a really cool concept idea. We put it together here, and it's where the name Departure comes from, honestly. 37-inch tire shown on this prototype gate stored on the inside and then through a pivoting mechanism can be pulled to the outside of the vehicle, and you gain the interior space back. Cool idea.

Another one of our concepts this year, we've done a Wagoneer. Wagoneer being part of the Jeep family, of course, has great off-road credibility to it. And we wanted to amp that up and turn this into, really, a luxurious overland vehicle.

Started on the front. We added a winch for self recovery to it. These lamps are notable that they're actually a laser-powered lamp.

Power for this vehicle is the new 3-liter Hurricane HO motor, which is going to be more than enough to move it around.

For off-road ability, we added a 35-inch tire. Larger tire to get us over more obstacles. And we did that by raising the wheel opening through here.

The interior is notable. It's got a really great warm sort of a cabin plaid to it. Really nicely dresses up the cockpit. And then behind the front seats, we took everything out. So now it's just a big, wide-open space back here.

Notably, this also features the new Redtail Overland. It's their Skyloft roof camping system. Really a premium piece for a premium sort of an off-road vehicle. Now I'll show you how that works.

There's a hard-sided piece with glass windows, or rather transparent windows. Open this back here. Deploys really quickly.

So this is all battery powered. Has a solar panel on the roof. And then it has heating, air conditioning, lighting, connectivity to it, a full 6-foot-long mattress into it, and it's really premium materials inside of this.

Next up, really cool project. This we're calling this Scrambler 392. It's based off of a 392 Wrangler. Of course, those are all four door. We turned this into a two door.

Left the wheelbase the same. 40-inch tires. Light weighted the vehicle by taking off a lot of the pieces that we didn't need. Carbon-fiber hood, fenders, the whole quarter panel.

This also features AccuAir's new air suspension. I'll demonstrate. Has about 5 inches of travel or movement to it up and down.

And then the back of the vehicle, which is sort of a truck style-- in fact, we used the last 10 inches of a Gladiator pickup to create the back, including the tailgate. 392 Scrambler.

For Moab 2023, one of our most favorite categories we like to do are the restomods. This year we've selected-- it's an 1878 Jeep Cherokee but with a lot of modifications to it soaked in this sort of '70s wrapper. To begin with, the vehicle, we bought it off of Craigslist somewhere. Scanned it and put it-- made a digital model of it. This is actually placed onto-- complete onto a brand new Rubicon 4xe chassis. So it's the 2 liter with the 4xe system. 37-inch tire on an old-school slotted mag.

The charge port is neatly integrated into it to charge the batteries. The whole instrument panel and front seating compartment is from the donor Wrangler. We've left the back seat out, put the spare tire in here, opened up the sides of it for fresh air. Just really a lot of great details on this vehicle. The overall impression we're really happy with.

Another one of our entries for Moab this year is a Gladiator that we've-- been put together by our friends at JPP. Features a lot of cool things. First, this bumper seat on the front. So it's a grill guard. Folds down to become a seat on the front. Metal bumper, Rubicon bumper with a Warn winch in it. Vehicle features a lift from JPP, a 37-inch tire on a unique wheel.

This also being a Gladiator but with the half doors on it and then the hardtop. I think it's just a really great look to it.

Side rock rails for the vehicle. Lights on the roof. A unique sport-bar arrangement back here with storage up on top. And then this cargo bed, which is very utilitarian but a concept piece on it. Features some great styling to it. Open through the sides. RotopaX mount here. And even the tailgate has been reconstructed in this great industrial feel to it. Spare tire has been relocated from under the vehicle up into the bed. Really a great piece.

So this project actually starts out with a little bit of a story. 2021, we released a very special color for Wrangler. It was Tuscadero pink. And that vehicle, we had anticipated it would do about 5,000 units, and we've been asked over and over for a follow up. That's what this project is.

This is a really special color, a follow up that we're looking at. And then the vehicle it's applied to, pretty special vehicle. It's a 4xe Rubicon. We've sprinkled a few pieces on it from AEV, their front bumper with a shorter hoop, the Warn winch, lighting down below. The tire is a 37-inch tire on a AEV bead-lock wheel.

Then moving down the side, it's one of my favorite combinations. It's the half doors with the one-touch power top. It just opens the vehicle up so nicely. And then you can easily close it back down.

One other great feature of this, it has the AccuAir full-air suspension on it. This is a new product, and we're using it on this vehicle as well. Has about a 5 and 1/2 inch range to it. I'll just punch the button here. Air down.

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The winner of Autoblog’s 2023 Technology of the Year competition is Mercedes-Benz’s Dolby Atmos audio system. It defeated a number of impressive other new technologies like BMW’s Theater Screen, Ford’s Remote Rev and more. Dolby Atmos Spatial Audio has been present in theaters and home theater setups for quite some …

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2024 Honda Ridgeline gets the TrailSport treatment

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline is getting the TrailSport treatment along with a number of key interior updates for the entire lineup. The big news is obviously the new Ridgeline Trailsport, which adapts many of the same elements of the all-new Pilot TrailSport and the recently revealed updated Passport TrailSport. That …

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2024 Honda Passport gets TrailSport upgrades

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2024 Honda Prologue walkaround

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2023 Detroit Auto Show - everything you need to know

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2024 Ford F-150 Tremor, Raptor R, and Platinum Plus walkthroughs at the 2023 Detroit Auto Show

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Quick look at the 2025 Ford Mustang GTD

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2023 Easter Jeep Safari to Reveal EV Concepts

The 2023 Easter Jeep Safari is happening soon. Here is a sneak-peek at a few of the electric concept vehicles Jeep will be unveiling.

Easter Jeep Safari to Reveal EV Concepts

2023 Easter Jeep Safari lineup of Jeep brand concept vehicles

Every year in the beautiful red rock setting of Moab, Utah, is the Easter Jeep Safari. Jeeple (Jeep people) of all shapes and sizes make their way into the picturesque desert to show off their incredible builds, participate in off-road challenges and surround themselves with like-minded enthusiasts. Though, for Jeep (and some other manufacturers that sneak in), it's a chance to show Jeep owners what's coming down the pipe.

For the most part, it's Jeep unloading concepts upon concepts. Easter Jeep Safaris of the past have been no exception – it's where the Jeep Hemi was introduced, the PHEV hybrid and all-electric concepts were unveiled – and this year will be no different. According to Jeep, there are four electrified concepts that are incredible, even for non-Jeep owners.

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Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Concept

First up, the Wrangler Rubicon 4xe. No, nothing special has been done to the powertrain or the four-wheel-drive system, but it does come with a rather festive paint job. Jeep was overwhelmed by the support for the pink edition they brought a few Safaris ago, so this year, they'll be bringing a magenta version.

The grille's design is the same as seen on the 20th Anniversary Edition Wranglers, though the hood has a two-tone decal and design package that's unique to the magenta version. Instead of stock Jeep wheels, the magenta 4xe runs 37s on 17-inch American Expedition Vehicles. Forever a favorite among the Jeeple, AEV also provides the front and rear bumpers, which house the Warn Zeon winch.

Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept

Next is the Magneto 3.0 EV concept. For three years in a row, Jeep has brought an all-electric concept to the Safari, with no word on when an all-electric version would be produced. This time, though, Jeep will be bringing out the Magneto 3.0 Wrangler concept.

Incredibly, the all-electric powertrain would still be paired with a traditional manual transmission, which would transfer 625 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque to the 4x4 drivetrain. Even with that much power under the pedal, Jeep swears that, unlike the other concepts, the range and mileage have been "greatly approved."

1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept

Serving as the resident resto-mod is the 1978 Cherokee 4xe concept – a plug-in hybrid that pays incredible homage to the era. Underneath the time-appropriate frame is the Wrangler's 4xe powertrain – two electric motors paired to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo – while on the inside, all the color and character of the 70s are in full swing.

Mixed with the groovy styling, though, is a tasteful blend of modern technology and creature comforts. From the brown leather seats, the driver is behind a modern Jeep steering wheel, complete with all the deliciously modern technological goodies, like air conditioning, terrain select mode and more.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept

Finally, the Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure concept. This is the concept that will make saying "tubular" popular again. The grille has a tubular seven-slotted guard to protect the radiator and lights, and all four doors have been swapped for tubular framing. For extra seating at a campsite, the front grille guard can also be used as a bench.

Covered with Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) aplenty, the Dark Harbor Rubicon plug-in hybrid concept has JPP's factory-made 2-inch lift kit, 37-inch all-terrain tires, and beautifully bronze 17-inch wheels. Keeping well in line with the "Departure" moniker, the spare tire holder has been swapped for a tubular holder that's removable to help improve the departure angle.

For the first time in all 50 states, the Departure will be fitted with flat fenders that are 100% legal, don't compromise space in the wheel wells for larger tires and meets OEM lighting requirements and tire coverage.

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2023 Light Up the Season registration and event details.

November  8, 2023   (Moscow, Idaho)  — Join us downtown on Thursday, December 7 th  for this year’s Light Up the Season gathering, which will include the annual tree lighting, the announcement of the DeLIGHTful Downtown winner, and the Light Up the Season parade! The festivities will kick-off at 6pm on Main Street.

DeLIGHTful Downtown registration is open, now through Nov. 30, Downtown businesses are welcome to participate and enter their storefront into this holiday decoration contest. To qualify, a business must be located on or near Main St. There are three criteria’s each competing storefront will be judged on.  

• Prominent use of lights
• Seasonal/Holiday theme selected by business is apparent
• The Business utilized a significant portion of their storefront to decorate for the judges and public.

Four finalists will be selected, on Dec. 1, by a judging panel for public vote. Public voting will be open, Dec. 4 through Dec. 6.

Light Up the Season parade float registration is also open, now through Dec. 1. It is not mandatory to enter into the float contest to be a part of the parade, but registrants interested in participating in the float contest can enter into the following categories:

• Best General Entry
• Best Use of Lights
• Best Youth Entry
• Best Business Entry

If you are a downtown business and would like to participate in our annual DeLIGHTful Downtown, or interested in registering a float for the parade, please click on the link below:

https://moscowarts.submittable.com/submit

Story Contact:  Laura Perrigo, Community Events Administrative Specialist Phone:  208-883-7000 ext. 7233 Email:  [email protected]

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2024 Easter Jeep Safari: Four New Concepts, Each with a Different Purpose and Palette

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• Chipping and registration of pets
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• Ear cleaning
• Ear and eye cleaning, nail trimming, bangs trimming
• Coat color with hypoallergenic colored crayons
• Perfuming, selection of care products
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• Feed recommendations
• Referral to a specialist
• Collection of food, treats, toys and care products for animals from shelters
• Dressura. Basic commands
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• Master classes with children: communication with your pet
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• Bubble Zone
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