Electric Cars

Stellantis has recently decided to halt the development of the highly anticipated Jeep Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid. This strategic shift is attributed to changing consumer demands in the electric truck market. Instead of pursuing the hybrid Gladiator, the company plans to invest further in the existing Gladiator lineup, introducing more factory features, customization options, and potentially a powerful Hemi V-8 engine. This move marks a notable departure from earlier commitments to electrify the entire Jeep range.

This decision, while surprising to some, reflects a re-evaluation of market trends by Stellantis. Despite the cancellation of the Gladiator 4xe, Jeep has experienced considerable success with its other hybrid models, the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe. These models have demonstrated strong sales performance, indicating a continued interest in electrified vehicles within the Jeep brand, albeit with a refined focus on specific segments.

The Unexpected End of the Gladiator 4xe Hybrid

Stellantis has officially canceled the Jeep Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid project, despite earlier announcements confirming its development and an anticipated 2025 launch. This decision stems from a re-evaluation of market demand, as customer preferences for electric truck powertrains continue to evolve. The automaker will redirect its investments towards enhancing the Gladiator with customer-requested features, expanded customization options, and exploring alternative powertrain solutions, including the potential introduction of a Hemi V-8 engine. This marks a significant shift from Jeep's initial plan to electrify its entire vehicle lineup in the coming years, signaling a more conservative approach to hybridization for certain models based on perceived market viability.

The journey of the Gladiator 4xe from concept to cancellation has been marked by a series of shifting commitments. In early 2021, coinciding with the launch of the Wrangler 4xe, Jeep declared its intention to electrify its full range. Subsequent statements, including one from former brand boss Jim Morrison in September 2023, reaffirmed the hybrid Gladiator's progression. Even as recently as May 2024, Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa had indicated a 2025 arrival for the Gladiator 4xe. However, the latest announcement from Stellantis confirms that these plans have been definitively shelved, with resources now being channeled into strengthening the traditional Gladiator offerings and introducing other engine options, such as the powerful Hemi V-8, to meet diverse customer demands.

Jeep's Ongoing Electrification Success and Future Powertrain Strategies

Despite the discontinuation of the Gladiator 4xe hybrid, Jeep continues to achieve significant success with its existing plug-in hybrid offerings. The Wrangler 4xe, introduced in 2021, and the Grand Cherokee 4xe, launched a year later, have both demonstrated robust sales performance. These models highlight a strong consumer appetite for electrified vehicles within Jeep's core lineup, indicating that while the Gladiator 4xe may not proceed, the broader strategy for hybrid integration remains a key component of the brand's future. The company plans to leverage this success by reinvesting in other areas of the Gladiator's development, focusing on features and diverse engine options to maintain its market appeal.

The sales figures for Jeep's existing hybrid models underscore their market acceptance and importance. In the current year, Wrangler 4xe sales saw a substantial 38 percent increase in the second quarter compared to the first, while Grand Cherokee 4xe sales grew by eight percent quarter-over-quarter. Combined, these hybrids accounted for approximately 25 percent of total Wrangler and Grand Cherokee sales in the first three months of the year. Last year, the Wrangler hybrid alone made up 37 percent of the model's total sales, with 13 percent of Grand Cherokees sold being hybrid variants. This strong performance, alongside the strategic decision to offer alternative powertrain options like the Hemi V-8 for the Gladiator, demonstrates Jeep's flexible approach to electrification and overall product development, adapting to both technological advancements and consumer preferences.

Experience Automotive Grandeur: The Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition.

The Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition: A Tribute to Engineering Excellence.

At an initial cost of $244,400, the Mercedes-Maybach S680 4Matic is recognized as the most opulent vehicle in the German automaker's lineup, uniquely featuring a V12 engine. Understanding the high value clients place on distinction, Mercedes presents the new Mercedes-Maybach V12 Edition. This special release celebrates the V12 engine and is restricted to just 50 units for specific global markets, with its debut at Italy's historic Fort Michelangelo underscoring its exceptional status among luxury sedans.

Tracing the Lineage: The Maybach Zeppelin's Enduring Influence on the V12 Edition.

Maybach's rich heritage dates back to the early 20th century, with the Maybach Zeppelin marking a significant association with V12 engines. The Zeppelin was notable for incorporating Maybach's inaugural series-produced 12-cylinder engine. Available in 7.0- and 8.0-liter variants, this V12 delivered up to 200 horsepower and achieved a remarkable top speed of approximately 106 mph for its era. While the modern Maybach S680 continues the V12 legacy, delivering 621 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque from a 6.0-liter twin-turbo configuration, allowing it to reach 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, the V12 Edition offers 603 hp. Daniel Lescow, Head of Mercedes-Maybach, emphasizes that this limited series of 50 vehicles embodies the brand's enduring legacy, combining advanced technology with exclusive style through its MANUFAKTUR program.

Distinguished Exterior: A Two-Tone Finish Adorned with 24-Carat Gold.

The V12 Edition's exterior features a sophisticated two-tone scheme, combining Manufaktur Olive Metallic on the upper body with obsidian black metallic below, accentuated by a high-tech Silver Metallic pinstripe. This striking color combination, which requires 10 days to apply (double the time for a standard Maybach), is a rarity even among luxury sedans. A unique Maybach emblem on the C-pillar showcases a chrome and gold medal, intricately displaying the number '12' as a homage to the Maybach Zeppelin DS 8's hood ornament. The 24-carat gold medal ring is enhanced with diamond engraving, and its V-pattern inlay subtly references the V-cylinder engine layout, complemented by Manufaktur Olive Metallic five-hole forged wheels.

A Sanctuary of Sophistication: The Interior Designed for Ultimate Comfort.

The interior of the Edition 12 is a realm of refined elegance, featuring Nappa leather in Saddle Brown from the Manufaktur division. High-gloss brown burr walnut trim evokes classic luxury, harmoniously juxtaposed with the advanced, crystal-clear digital displays characteristic of Maybach. The handcrafted steering wheel, requiring extensive labor, along with a diamond-quilted roof liner in Saddle Brown, are exclusive to this model. A '1 of 50' badge in the center console, alongside an elaborate commemorative medal framed by 12 golden circles, pays tribute to the legendary V12 engine. This intricate detail alone demands seven days of skilled craftsmanship. Further exclusive touches include silver-plated champagne flutes by Robbe & Berking with bespoke engraving, a key gift box, and a trunk mat with Saddle Brown edging.

Pricing and Availability: The Cost of Exclusivity.

Mercedes, following the tradition of ultra-luxury marques like Rolls-Royce, opts not to publicly disclose the exact price of such a magnificent automobile. However, considering the bespoke finishes and extended production time, it is estimated that the V12 Edition could command an additional $100,000 or more beyond the standard model's price, potentially placing it in the $350,000 range, making it one of the most expensive cars globally. The specific markets for these 50 units have not been revealed, meaning availability in regions like the United States is not guaranteed. This V12 Edition follows another recent special, the California-inspired Maybach S680 V12 'Edition Emerald Isle', limited to just 25 units. Despite the rise of electric vehicles, Mercedes' CEO has indicated that the V12 engine will continue to be offered into the 2030s, affirming its enduring presence in the luxury automotive landscape.