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This week in EVs: Electric Jeeps, Chevy Equinox, reborn VW bus

There's going to be tons of car news next week as the Detroit Auto Show makes its return after 48 years. OK, so the pandemic and the show's shifting calendar only made it feel like 48 years, but January 2019 was still a long time ago. As we await that wave of headlines, let's look back at the substantial week that already was, specifically in terms of the electric car news that broke. Electric Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S blaze trail to brand's EV future Jeep declared Thursday to be 4xe Day as it revealed loads of previously unknown information about its future electrification efforts. The biggest surprise was the extremely cool and 100% electric Jeep Recon. Although it looks like a Wrangler, it's absolutely not a Wrangler replacement, and is indeed quite different for reasons besides its powertrain (independent front and rear suspension, fully enclosed fenders, fixed roof). As the photos attest, though, you'll be able to remove the doors and rear-quarter windows just like a Wrangler. And again, it's electric. Expect the Recon to be one of the most eagerly anticipated new vehicles over the next couple of years. Yes, years, plural. Production will start in 2024 with reservations accepted starting early next year. Jeep Recon View 5 Photos   There was then the Wagoneer S. Despite the name, it isn't a sportier Wagoneer variant or even an electric Wagoneer. In fact, the name is temporary according to chief designer Ralph Gilles. This sleek SUV, which sure looks like Jeep's attempt at a Range Rover Vilar (not a bad thing), will apparently have a 600-horsepower electric powertrain. It too will be produced in North America starting in 2024 with reservations starting early next year. Jeep Wagoneer S View 4 Photos   There actually WILL be an electrified Wagoneer, however: the Grand Wagoneer 4xe PHEV. That's good since the Grand Wagoneer gets pretty atrocious fuel economy. Details were light regarding specs, but we did get a half-decent photo. Finally, the first of these electrified Jeeps to launch will be the Avenger. Yes, Chrysler/Stellantis is dusting off an old Dodge name for a Jeep. That Dodge in question wasn't sold in Europe, though (good for them), which is important since the Jeep Avenger will only be sold on the other side of the pond. It's mechanically based on the same platform as several French Stellantis EV SUVs, and only goes 249 miles on the far more generous European WLTP test cycle.

GM 6.2L V8 claims most powerful light-duty truck engine title

General Motors has officially captured the horsepower crown for mainstream pickup trucks with its 6.2-liter V8. The big mill, available in both the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, comes to market with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, handily outdoing its two cross-town competitors, Ram (5.7-liter V8, 395 ponies and 407 lb-ft) and Ford (6.2-liter V8, 411 hp and 434 lb-ft).
The new GM 6.2 will take a bit of an investment, though. Those that want the extra thrust will need to go with either the LTZ or High Country trims from the Chevy, or the SLT and Denali trims from GMC, which are the two highest trim levels for the respective vehicles. Trim levels aside, if you're in the business of towing, GM has you covered. Optioned with the 6.2-liter V8 and the Max Trailering Package, owners will be able to pull 12,000 pounds, a hugely impressive figure.
We still aren't certain as to what sort of economy the new engine will get, but it'll probably be a bad bet for the fuel conscious. As for availability, expect to see the 6.2-liter trucks in showrooms later in the fall.

GM recalls 668,000 SUVs due to faulty anchor bars for child seats

DETROIT — General Motors is recalling more than 668,000 small SUVs in the U.S. because owners may not be able to hook child seats to the anchors. The recall covers certain 2020 to 2023 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says in documents posted on its website Thursday that the rear-seat lower anchor bars may have had too much powder coating. That could make them too thick and prevent a child seat from being installed. GM says no crashes or injuries have been reported. The automaker is asking owners to install child seats using the seatbelts until the latches are repaired. Dealers will inspect the anchors and replace the finish if necessary. Owners will be notified by letter starting June 26.   Recalls Chevrolet GM GMC SUV child safety car seat