Stellantis has decided to discontinue plug-in hybrid versions of Jeep and Chrysler models, citing excessive complexity and high production costs. Maintaining two powertrains – gasoline and electric – within a single vehicle has become economically unattractive, while increasingly strict environmental regulations require major investments in technologies that risk becoming obsolete relatively quickly.
Experience has also shown that many off-road vehicle owners rarely use electric-only mode, which undermines the efficiency benefits of carrying heavy battery packs.
Instead, the company is redirecting its investments toward the development of the STLA platform, which is designed for fully electric vehicles with a body-on-frame architecture.
For customers who are not yet ready for full electrification, Stellantis will continue to offer mild (“soft”) hybrid systems that are simpler to produce and more reliable in everyday use.
This strategic shift will allow Stellantis to free up resources for the accelerated development of solid-state batteries, which are expected to reach production vehicles by the end of the decade—helping secure Jeep’s and Chrysler’s leadership in the eco-friendly off-road segment.
