The big, bold Jeep concept vehicle with the unusual name of Rescue first wowed the public at auto shows in the United States and has now drawn similar reaction at the recent Geneva Motor Show.
So much interest, that the odds on the Rescue becoming the latest concept vehicle from the Chrysler Group stable to go into production have considerably shortened.
Even Chrysler group design chief Trevor Creed admits “There is a business case to do it.”
The question is, will the possible production vehicle be built along the same lines as the Rescue concept, which towers over the not-insignificant Grand Cherokee, or will its design features and style be incorporated into other models already under consideration?
Chrysler Group does not comment on future models, but the reaction to the Rescue suggests the style of the Rescue could be a pointer to how Jeep models may look within a few years.
The Rescue is a handsome vehicle that owes its characteristic appearance to the icon of all Jeep models, the Wrangler. Both have the same squat, seven-slot grille, the same broad fenders over the wheels and the same external door hinges.
The Wrangler is designed to go almost anywhere off-road and the same is true for the Rescue. Indeed, Chrysler Group describes it as the “ultimate execution of a Jeep off-road vehicle”.
It sits well up from the ground on run-flat 37-inch tyres, giving it a massive ride height to overcome obstacles on the track. An on-board system can reduce the tyre pressures to provide further grip if necessary, then inflate the tyres again. The suspension (hydropneumatic on the front) is also adjustable for ride-height. Cameras under the chassis inform the driver of any dangerous rocks in the way.
In its role as a would-be Rescue vehicle it is equipped with infrared (thermal) cameras to seek out body heat in search situations, satellite telephone and navigation provide further guidance and it has additional rooftop lighting powered by an auxiliary generator on board. Remote winches are fitted to both the front and rear of the Rescue, providing superior recovery ability.
The Rescue concept vehicle is not actually based on any current Jeep model, instead, taking its tough chassis from the Dodge Ram. The engine is a 9-litre Cummins diesel and the transmission is built for extra heavy-duty work. The four-wheel-drive system is also designed for tough off-road duties.
In all respects it is the complete Jeep and a clearly the bigger brother to the 2-door Wrangler, even down its ability to run almost totally “open”, thanks to the folding front windscreen, removable passenger doors, retractable glass in the tailgate door, a sliding glass front sunroof and a folding canvass rear sunroof.
Just the sort of tough image that makes a Jeep look like a Jeep.
