Me too. There are rumors...

This.

They are going to offer a PHEV version of nearly every model. The slides from their Nov 2018 five-year plan are online, but here is a summary article: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/eight-plug-in-hybrids-coming-to-jeep-lineup-by-2021/

Jeep is putting in solar-powered charging stations at some trailheads... as well as at Rubicon Springs, halfway across the Rubicon. That being said, a recent article stated it made it across the entire 22 miles of the Rubicon on a single charge.

FCA is already working on that (V2G/V2H/V2L) along with the utility industry and other partners: https://ww2.energy.ca.gov/2019publications/CEC-500-2019-027/CEC-500-2019-027.pdf

Okay, I’ll bite:

This.

Isn’t this why pillar-mounted airbags have to be so strong - the US standard assumes an unbelted occupant? I am just trying to understand why pillars are so thick and outward visibility sucks so bad.

I haven’t had a chance to double-check, but a kind automotive engineer on here recently enlightened me that many of these rollover and other crash standards are to protect unbelted occupants...

$100K? Not until they slim down the pillars, fix the D pillar, and make the front and rear unique? C’mon Jeep. You have decades of material to inspire you.

Yikes .

Best post I’ve read in a while. Thank you. Hat tip for “Goldilocks zone.” That’s perfect.

I can see what you mean, but maybe separate pickups from SUVs/crossovers.

Perfect for USPS!

By “out-of-position” driver or passenger, does that mean one who is not wearing a seatbelt?

Thanks for this. I don’t read Consumer Reports, but you’re right.

My wife bought me a 1961 Willys Delivery (see avatar) as a wedding present. 

Yeah, and the European pedestrian crash standards raise the hood, so the designers increase the size of the wheels which raises the belt line.

Am I the only one who yearns for a lower beltline, thinner pillars, and more glass... leading to better outward visibility?

Very true. There a numerous summaries of the birth of the Jeep out there. This one is a quick read in case anyone’s interested: The story of the BANTAM JEEP.