Jeep’s CJ Surge EV concept wows SEMA show

Electromodding is cool. Most EV-converted classics roll out of home workshops, but when manufacturers join the party it’s recognition of how a brand’s heritage can blend with very modern propulsion.

Enter Jeep’s CJ Surge 4×4 electromod concept.

Revealed at Las Vegas’ Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, the Surge is a bright orange exploration of how Jeep could offer its enthusiast customers battery-electric vehicle (BEV) parts kits applications.

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It’s testing the water – and obviously acknowledges – there’s money to be made in providing “future propulsion-system offerings” for enthusiasts to build or convert their classic models into zero-emission vehicles.

Ergo, why let aftermarket EV companies take the cash when you can get Jeep-stamped (and warranty-backed) kit to modernise your classic. An old Jeep with a new heart seems somewhat more ‘original’ if Jeep gives its blessing to the EV update.

It will, as ever, grind the gears of purists. But electromodding demand is riding a decent sized wave, and surely more OEMs will explore its potential in coming years.

The CJ Surge’s electric off-road abilities

The concept looks suitably stunning as its CJ body is textbook ‘seven-slot grille’ classic Jeep. CJ was the series built between 1945 and 1986 before the (slightly) modernised Wrangler arrived in 1987.

The Surge uses a 400-volt, 200kW electric powertrain, mounted to the CJ’s frame with custom engine mounts. Lithium-ion battery modules (no size or range has been given) send power and torque to all four wheels through a two-speed Jeep transfer case with selectable gearing. The modules are enclosed in the rear of the passenger cabin – it’s strictly only fun for two.

The Cooper Canyon-coloured body rides on a 2-inch lift-kit and 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrains, with tough-guy bonnet, 2-inch chopped windscreen, winch-equipped JK Wrangler Rubicon bumper, fender flares and canopy roof all in black.

Its 18 x 9-inch Rhino rims are black too but with ‘I’m electric!” blue detailing on the rim beads, something also seen on the doorless door frames and graphics around the bonnet.

For the hardcore, front and rear Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) Dana 44 Crate axles give opportunity for silent crawling over rocks and boulders, while there’s JPP underbody skid and front-bumper plates and concept JPP rock rails.

A charging port is spotted behind the driver-side opening.

It’s a sexy blend of old- and new-school inside. Sedoso cloth and houndstooth fabric inserts feature that electric blue colour again, while the steering wheel and flat body-coloured dashboard are simplicity personified.

A modern Wrangler JK centre console looks decidedly less retro with its rotary shifter knob, as do Mopar instrument-panel gauges showing remaining battery life.

There’s a custom roll-cage for safety, while the cabin looks pleasingly hose-out with Mopar all-weather floor mats.

Jeep going hard on electrification

Jeep says its mission is to become the “leading electrified SUV brand in the world” and exploring the future zero-emission propulsion system kit supports the brand’s goals.

“With a spotlight on electrification, Mopar is in a great position to fully enhance the customer experience with quality-tested, factory-backed parts and accessories,” said Mopar’s Mark Bosanac.

Jeep’s also using SEMA 2022 to showcase its Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe Concept, Wrangler 4xe Birdcage Concept and Magneto 2.0 Concept, emphasising its efforts to win hearts and minds for its electric future.

The Polish-built Avenger will be the first Jeep EV to go on-sale globally when it launches in Europe in early 2023, while its electrified Recon and Wagoneer S will start production in 2024.