Jeep's Recon EV Patent Reveals Three-Speed Gearbox for Enhanced Off-Road Capability

Jeep's new Recon electric off-roader may be the Wrangler of EVs, with a three-speed gearbox for added on and off-road capability. The gearbox features two planetary gear sets and three clutches, allowing for three distinct gear ratios. The first gear limits output speed for off-roading, while the second and third gears improve efficiency during everyday driving and on highways. The Recon is expected to have a driving range of around 300 miles and will be built from the ground up with its signature 4x4 off-road system.

Stellantis has made a significant stride in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the recent patent approval for a three-speed gearbox. This innovative technology aims to enhance the off-road capabilities and efficiency of EVs, potentially revolutionizing the way these vehicles are designed and used.

The patent, granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on May 1, 2025, outlines a compact but powerful solution that combines two planetary gearsets and four strategically placed clutches to create three distinct gear ratios within a single electric drive unit [2]. This design offers a significant improvement over the single-speed transmissions commonly found in EVs, providing greater flexibility and performance across various terrains and speeds.

The three-speed gearbox features three distinct gears: low range (1st gear), high range (2nd gear), and direct drive (3rd gear). The 1st gear is designed to slow output speed and boost torque, making it ideal for towing, crawling over rocks, deep snow, or sand. The 2nd gear provides a higher gear ratio suitable for normal driving conditions, while the 3rd gear offers a 1:1 ratio for maximum efficiency at highway speeds. This design allows the vehicle to operate within the motor’s optimal range, enhancing range and performance [2].

One of the most notable applications of this technology is the potential integration into Jeep's upcoming electric off-roader, the Recon. The Recon is expected to have a driving range of around 300 miles and will be built from the ground up with its signature 4x4 off-road system. The three-speed gearbox could provide the Recon with the traction and flexibility needed to conquer off-road terrains, much like the iconic Jeep Wrangler [3].

The patent also highlights the practicality of this design, as it is engineered to fit into mainstream EVs, from Ram pickup trucks and Jeep SUVs to performance Dodge EVs and Chrysler family haulers. This compact and efficient design could scale into smaller crossovers or all-wheel-drive (AWD) EV platforms, making it a versatile solution for various vehicle types [2].

As the EV market continues to mature, performance, range, and capability will no longer be trade-offs. Breakthroughs like the three-speed gearbox from Stellantis show that drivers can soon enjoy the best of all worlds: torque for trails, efficiency for highways, and seamless shifting without a drop of power.

References:
[1] https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/stellantis-planning-a-three-speed-gearbox-ev-roading
[2] https://moparinsiders.com/stellantis-secures-patent-for-three-speed-ev-gearbox/
[3] https://www.facebook.com/TomTepeAutocenter/posts/-ready-to-conquer-midwest-trails-check-out-the-top-3-jeeps-for-off-roading-in-in/1188289863310538/