Jeep has long been the go-to name for rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, and the upcoming Jeep Recon EV is poised to carry that legacy into the electric age. Built from scratch as Jeep’s first true off-road electric SUV, the Recon promises to blend the brand’s iconic 4x4 capability with modern electric power. With whispers of a game-changing three-speed gearbox and a design that echoes the legendary Wrangler, this new model has adventure seekers buzzing. Here’s everything we know about the Recon EV and why it might just redefine what an electric off-roader can do.
A Wrangler-Inspired Electric Beast
When Jeep unveiled the Recon as a concept in 2022, it didn’t shy away from drawing parallels to the Wrangler. The Recon sports removable doors and windows, a nod to the open-air freedom that Wrangler fans have loved for decades. But it’s not just about looks. Jeep claims the Recon is built to tackle the toughest trails, with a rugged design and off-road systems that live up to the brand’s heritage. Whether it’s crawling over rocks or powering through mud, the Recon is engineered to handle it all without burning a drop of gas.
Image credit: Jeep
The Recon is built on the STLA Large platform, the same foundation as Jeep’s first electric offering, the Wagoneer S. This platform gives the Recon a solid starting point, promising a driving range of around 300 miles per charge. That’s enough to get you deep into the wilderness and back without worrying about running out of juice. Spy photos from last year, shared by a user on the Jeep Recon Forum, revealed a prototype with a display showing 147 miles of range at 66% battery, suggesting a total range closer to 223 miles. However, Jeep has since refined the production model, and insiders expect it to hit that 300-mile mark, making it a practical choice for long adventures.
The Game-Changer: A Three-Speed Gearbox for EVs
What sets the Recon apart from other electric SUVs isn’t just its off-road chops—it’s the innovative tech under the hood. A recently uncovered patent filed by Jeep’s parent company, Stellantis, with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on May 1, 2025, reveals a groundbreaking three-speed gearbox designed specifically for electric vehicles. Unlike most EVs, which rely on a single-speed transmission for simplicity, this new system could give the Recon unmatched versatility.
The gearbox uses two planetary gear sets and three clutches to deliver three distinct gear ratios, each tailored for specific driving conditions. The first gear is all about low-speed torque, perfect for crawling over rocks, towing heavy loads, or navigating tricky terrain like sand, snow, or mud. It gives drivers precise control when the going gets tough. The second gear is optimized for everyday driving, striking a balance between power and efficiency for city streets or backroads. The third gear is built for highway cruising, boosting efficiency to stretch the Recon’s range on long trips.
This setup is a big deal because it addresses a common trade-off in EVs: range versus performance. Most electric vehicles sacrifice some capability to maximize battery life, but Stellantis’ patented gearbox could let the Recon excel both on and off the pavement. While Stellantis hasn’t confirmed which vehicles will get this tech, the Recon, as Jeep’s flagship off-road EV, seems like the ideal candidate. It could also pave the way for other Stellantis models, like an electric Ram pickup or a Dodge muscle car, to adopt similar systems.
Power and Performance That Packs a Punch
The Recon EV isn’t just about clever engineering—it’s got the muscle to back it up. Jeep is equipping the Recon with standard four-wheel drive, ensuring it can tackle any terrain with confidence. Estimates suggest the Recon will deliver between 400 and 600 horsepower, putting it in the same league as some of the most powerful SUVs on the market. That kind of power, combined with the instant torque of an electric motor, means the Recon can surge forward with authority, whether you’re climbing a steep hill or accelerating onto the highway.
Inside, the Recon keeps things rugged yet refined. Spy photos of a prototype spotted in Michigan gave a peek at the interior, which includes Jeep’s signature Selec-Terrain system. This feature lets drivers switch between modes like Rock, Mud, and others to optimize performance for different conditions. The system is a staple in Jeep’s lineup, and its inclusion in the Recon signals that this EV is serious about off-road performance.
Trims, Pricing, and What to Expect
Jeep plans to offer the Recon in at least three trims: Willys, Overland, and a Moab edition. Each trim is expected to bring its own flavor to the table, with the Moab likely being the top-tier choice for hardcore off-roaders. While final pricing hasn’t been announced, industry insiders estimate the Recon will start around $60,000 for the base model. Higher-end trims, like the Moab, could climb toward $80,000, reflecting their premium features and off-road upgrades.
These price points put the Recon in a competitive spot, offering a unique blend of electric efficiency and Jeep’s legendary capability. For comparison, traditional gas-powered Wranglers can range from $35,000 to over $70,000, depending on the trim and options. The Recon’s pricing reflects its advanced tech and electric powertrain, but it’s still within reach for those looking for a premium off-road experience.
