2000 Jeep Commander 2 Concept specifications
Wheelbase: 114.0″
F/R Track Width: 69.0″/69.0″
Overall Length: 186.0″
Overall Width: 80.0″
Overall Height: 69.4″
Curb Weight: 5700lbs.
Frame Construction: aluminum and composite
Body Construction: carbon fiber
Powertrain: Fuel-Cell/Dual Electric Motors
Wheel Construction: aluminum
Wheel Diameter: 20″x9″
F/R Tire Size: 275/55/R20
Fuel Capacity: 10 gallons
Fuel Economy: 24 MPG
Jeep® Commander 2 merges dynamic design with an advanced fuel cell powertrain in a luxury sport-utility vehicle that is virtually pollution-free while achieving double the fuel efficiency of a conventional SUV.
While Commander 2 duplicates the shape and design of the first Commander, the new-generation vehicle is powered by a completely reengineered fuel cell system. The fuel cell is now combined with dual front and rear electric motors and advanced batteries into a hybrid-electric fuel cell powertrain that represents further advancement in the development of ultra-clean, ultra- efficient transportation for the 21st century. Commander 2 has near-zero tailpipe emissions and improves the average fuel efficiency by up to 12 mpg (gasoline equivalent).
Commander 2 runs on electricity generated by the fuel cell, which is fueled by hydrogen from an on-board methanol reformer. Methanol was chosen because it is easy to dispense, simpler to reform while producing lower emissions than a gasoline powered fuel cell, and eliminates the need for large hydrogen storage tanks in the vehicle.
Two AC induction motors, one for each axle, provide full-time, four-wheel drive. A nickel-metal-hydride battery provides supplemental energy during acceleration; while towing heavy payloads; and for cold starts, since fuel cell systems require warm up time. The battery captures energy normally lost during braking and also helps improve fuel efficiency.
To compensate for the additional weight and cost of the fuel cell system, Jeep designers incorporated DaimlerChrysler’s unique injection-molded thermoplastic body technology, demonstrating the weight savings that could be achieved with injection molded plastic.
The plastic body technology, first shown in the fall of 1997 in the Composite Concept Vehicle (CCV) and more recently in the Dodge ESX3, saves up to 50 percent in body weight, 10 to 50 percent in manufacturing costs and provides near 100 percent recyclability. Using molded-in-color plastic allowed designers to embody a very machined, high-tech feel to the surface appearance, unlike the design restrictions with stamped metal.Because of its lightweight body, Commander 2 weighs 5700 pounds, slightly more than typical full-size SUVs. The 180 degree convex side view mirrors eliminate blind spots and have wipers for better visibility during inclement weather. In addition, the tow hitch cover folds down and doubles as a step for ease in reaching the roof.
Functionality is a key component not only in Commander 2’s exterior design, but also in its roomy interior. The driver “Infotronic” system performs as a mobile office with a removable toaster-style pop-up “plug and play” laptop computer docked in the center console. The system provides global positioning system (GPS) data and Internet for real-time weather and traffic information and directions, along with e-mail phone and vehicle diagnostic information. A liquid crystal display (LCD) screen in the instrument panel connects to the driver’s laptop. The steering column houses a small microphone that allows the driver to access the mobile office via a “user independent” voice recognition system.
The instrument panel contains another unique feature that provides extra security: a tiny camera positioned to take a picture of the driver. If the vehicle is stolen, a picture of the thief is electronically sent to the authorities. The instrument panel is further enhanced with chrome details and a brushed aluminum surface accented with light burl wood on both the panel and steering wheel. Sophisticated navy blue is the primary color of the interior and seats, complemented by cognac leather trim inserts.
