The last year has been one of significant transition for Jeep, and the brand’s story continues to unfold with another unexpected twist. In 2023, then-Jeep CEO Antonio Filosa announced ambitious plans to bring a Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid to market by 2025. The move was intended to expand the lineup of electrified Jeeps alongside the highly successful Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe, both of which quickly became some of the top-selling plug-in hybrid models in the United States.
However, the situation has changed dramatically. Filosa has since moved into the broader role of Stellantis CEO, and Jeep has now confirmed that the Gladiator 4xe project has been scrapped. Suppliers were informed that the plug-in pickup is canceled with immediate effect.
Originally, the Gladiator 4xe was expected to closely mirror the Wrangler 4xe in terms of technology. That would have meant a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, working in tandem with a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor, delivering a combined 375 horsepower. The truck was also projected to provide an all-electric driving range of around 32 kilometers, making it appealing for short commutes while retaining full off-road and towing capability.
Despite the potential, Jeep has shifted direction. In a statement to Automotive News, a company spokesperson explained that Jeep is “reinvesting funding to ensure the long-term growth of the Jeep Gladiator” and will instead focus on “more customer-requested factory features, customization, and additional powertrain options.” While the details remain vague, the brand emphasized that changing consumer demand—described as “evolving propulsion preferences”—was a driving factor in the decision. In other words, Jeep has decided to reassess its electrification strategy, choosing not to include a hybrid Gladiator in its future lineup.
The move will likely disappoint Jeep fans, especially given the sales success of the Wrangler 4xe, which has consistently led the PHEV market in the U.S. Yet timing may have also played a role. The clean vehicle tax credit, which helped make plug-in hybrids more affordable for American buyers, is set to expire soon, possibly reducing demand. Moreover, the Gladiator itself has been underperforming. Jeep sold only 42,125 units in 2023, a drop of more than 50 percent compared to the 89,712 trucks moved in 2021. There is a small positive, however: sales during the first half of 2025 have improved by 8 percent, reaching 25,400 units.
In lighter news, Jeep has announced the return of a fan-favorite color. The vibrant Reign purple paint will once again be available for the 2026 Wrangler and Gladiator. First introduced on the 2018 Wrangler, the shade has been revived in response to “popular demand.” Jeep says the color is aimed at drivers “passionate about purple,” offering enthusiasts another way to personalize their vehicles.
While the cancellation of the Gladiator 4xe marks a setback in Jeep’s electrification journey, the brand remains focused on adapting to customer preferences, strengthening its lineup, and offering unique features that keep its vehicles distinctive in a competitive market.