Jeep engines are primarily developed and manufactured by its parent company, Stellantis, through its global powertrain divisions. These divisions, including what was formerly known as FCA US, design and produce a variety of engine types specifically for Jeep vehicles, ensuring they meet the brand's rugged performance and efficiency requirements.
Key Developers and Manufacturers
Historically, and in the present day, the design and production of engines for Jeep vehicles are handled by internal entities of Stellantis. Different engine families are developed by specific regional divisions to cater to diverse vehicle lineups and market demands.
The Global Medium Engine (GME) Family
A notable example of an engine series developed for Jeep vehicles is part of the Global Medium Engine (GME) family. Specifically, a series known by the codeproject "Hurricane" was created by FCA US (the North American division of what is now Stellantis) to power American vehicles, including those from Chrysler, Dodge, and, significantly, Jeep. This highlights the internal development process within the company's own engineering teams.
Production Facilities
The manufacturing of these advanced engines takes place in specialized facilities. For instance, the GME Hurricane engines, designed by FCA US for Jeep and other American vehicles, are produced in Termoli, Italy, at the Termoli Powertrain Plant. This global manufacturing footprint allows Stellantis to leverage its expertise and production capabilities across various regions.
A Broader Perspective on Jeep Powertrains
While specific engine families like the Hurricane are highlighted, Jeep vehicles utilize a range of powertrains sourced internally from Stellantis's broader portfolio. This includes:
- Pentastar V6 Engines: Widely used across many Jeep models for a balance of power and efficiency.
- HEMI V8 Engines: Known for their robust power output, often found in higher-performance Jeep variants.
- Four-Cylinder Turbocharged Engines: Including the GME T4 (Hurricane is a variant), offering a blend of performance and fuel economy, particularly in more modern and compact Jeep models.
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Systems: Such as the 4xe powertrain, combining gasoline engines with electric motors to enhance efficiency and off-road capability, marking Jeep's move towards electrification.
These diverse engine options are a testament to Stellantis's comprehensive approach to powertrain development, ensuring that Jeep vehicles are equipped with engines tailored to their specific applications, from urban driving to extreme off-roading.
The development and manufacturing of Jeep engines remain a core function of Stellantis's engineering and production network, with dedicated teams ensuring high standards of performance and reliability for the iconic brand.
