In a significant shift that mirrors the evolving automotive world, Jeep is pulling gas-only Wrangler models from dealerships in 14 states. This strategic move by Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, is in response to the strict emissions regulations set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Consequently, shoppers in these specific states will now need to place special orders if they’re set on a gasoline-only Wrangler.
1.The 14 states impacted by this decision are California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. These states, along with Washington D.C., have adopted CARB’s emissions standards, which are stricter than the federal guidelines. In response, Stellantis is prioritizing the allocation of the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to these regions.
2.The Wrangler 4xe is becoming a favorite among drivers, beautifully combining electric and gasoline power for a versatile driving experience. It offers a notable electric-only range of about 20 miles and even outperforms many gas-powered Wrangler models in horsepower, making it a compelling choice for those aiming to lower their environmental impact without sacrificing Jeep’s legendary off-road prowess.
3.In contrast, states like Texas, which don’t follow CARB’s emissions standards, still have gas-only Wranglers readily available on dealer lots. In these non-CARB states, the Wrangler 4xe is offered as a custom-order model, highlighting the diverse market demands and regulatory landscapes across the nation.
4.This strategic adjustment to limit gas-only Wranglers in CARB states is a key part of Stellantis’ broader plan to navigate and comply with the varied emissions standards across different regions. While some automakers have managed to reach agreements with CARB states to meet standards through their overall national sales average, Stellantis, being a newer entity, was unable to join these agreements, leading to the necessity of adapting vehicle allocations to meet the distinct standards in California-aligned states.
5.This strategic pivot presents both challenges and opportunities for dealerships and customers. Dealers in CARB states might encounter situations where customers travel to neighboring states to purchase gasoline vehicles. However, many dealerships are proactively adapting by enhancing their sales teams’ knowledge to effectively promote the advantages of the 4xe models, emphasizing both their enhanced performance and potential fuel savings.
6.Despite these adjustments, Stellantis’ decision clearly signals the automotive industry’s accelerating transition toward electrification. With CARB rules mandating that zero-emission vehicles and plug-in hybrids constitute a substantial portion of sales by 2026, manufacturers are actively preparing for a future where electric vehicles will undeniably take center stage.
7.For consumers still desiring a gas-only Wrangler, the option to order one persists, though it will require a bit more planning and patience. As the automotive sector continues its dynamic evolution, buyers will need to adapt to these changes and seriously consider the compelling benefits offered by hybrid and electric models. It’s highly possible that Stellantis’ current move serves as a preview of similar strategies other automakers will adopt as they adjust to new emissions mandates and evolving consumer preferences.
The decision to remove gas-only Wranglers from dealer inventories in these 14 states is more than just a simple logistical change; it truly reflects the profound transformations currently reshaping the automotive industry. As we collectively move towards a more sustainable future, the choices available to consumers will continuously evolve, presenting both exciting new possibilities and unique challenges.
