Episode 871 – Electric Wrangler Knockoff?
Mahindra’s Wrangler Knock-Off Is Going Electric
And it could arrive in America before an electric Wrangler does.
Mahindra Automotive has posted the first teaser video of its upcoming Thar. e all-electric off-roader. The Thar, and its more agricultural cousin, the Roxor, have been a thorn in Jeep’s side for many years, as Jeep claims these vehicles are a knock-off of its Wrangler, but the real story is more nuanced than that.
The India-based automaker has tried for several years to import its Roxor to the USA, but it has always been successfully blocked by FCA or Stellantis. But earlier this year, the Eastern District Court of Michigan shot down the latest attempt, leaving the door open for Mahindra to import the (much) cheaper, albeit not US road-legal, Jeep Wrangler alternative. Apparently, the redesigned Thar and Roxor models are different enough not to confuse consumers, as if the name on the hood wasn’t good enough.
The Thar. e, however, is something new and appears to be more concept than a production-ready off-roader. Still, Mahindra might beat Jeep’s Magneto to the punch. The car will debut on 18 August in South Africa, where Mahindra has an assembly plant.
Diesel Being Dropped from the Gladiator
After a short run of just three model years, the Gladiator will drop the diesel option it gained in 2021. Jeep cites the reasoning for the decision as the automaker pivoting heavily towards electrification, with all of its new models due to be electrified in some way in just a few years. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine was added to the Jeep lineup after the 2017 accusation of emissions cheating by the EPA but before its $300 million 2022 settlement with the federal government for the same accusation.
Jeep will officially hang its diesel hat with the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon FarOut, ending the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel’s run under the hood of Jeep’s toughest trucks.
Newbie Nuggets with Wendy
What to carry in your jeep
There are literally hundreds of things you can carry in your jeep that at the time may seem important but honestly, if you carried everything you saw, heard about, or read about, you literally would need a second vehicle to store it all. This is a BASIC list of items to “get you started:”
1) Tow Strap – So you can pull your buddy out. Use an actual rated tow strap with loops at each end (not hooks). Do not use a rope (ropes can and will stretch or break). Straps usually have a 20,000 lb. rating or higher. (or higher) and should be min 20 feet.
2) Recovery attachments – D-rings or soft shackles, you need something to connect your tow strap to your Jeep. Plan on getting 3. Trust me on this one, it’s worth the investment. Easy to use and the good ones are American-made and rated, spend the extra $$ on quality.
3) Basic tool kit – a good set of tools. This would be at a minimum a couple of screwdrivers, a small set of wrenches, an adjustable wrench, pliers, channel lock pliers, a set of Vise Grip pliers, and some work gloves. Put in some duct tape and tie wire, regular electrical wire, zip ties, a few ratchet tie-down straps, and black electrical or silicone tape – we have used these items on others that have broken down. Sometimes it’s a simple “mend” that is just enough to get off the trail.
4) First Aid Kit – You would be surprised how many bumps and bruises you get climbing in and around obstacles. It’s very common to “slip” on rocks, ice, or loose gravel. Or get scratched by the branches of trees. Having a first aid kit with bandages, band-aids and disinfectant can help on the trail. Check this regularly to make sure your items haven’t expired.
5) Fire Extinguisher – Class ABC stored securely & easily accessible. Spend the extra $$ and get a bigger one. Most fires may require more retardant and the cute little ones won’t really do the trick with a big engine fire. Side note: Most organized Jeep runs require basic items to have on board and this is one of them.
6) Ham Radio or GMRS – GMRS has become the popular choice for wheelers these days. It’s easy to purchase on Amazon and only requires a one-time license fee whereas the HAM requires passing a test to get the license to operate. Having reliable communication is crucial should you need it. Cell phones generally don’t work in the backwoods or mountains and trails etc.
7) Trash bag – This is essential to any Jeeping experience. Pack out what you brought in. DON’T litter, and take ALL of your trash out with you. In fact, pick up any other trash you see along the trail. There are pouches that fit on the spare tire on the outside back of your jeep, so the trash stays out of the jeep.
8) Toiletries – YES you will have to go when you are out in nature. Keep small Ziploc baggies filled with toilet paper, and sundry items, and then use the Ziploc to store your used waste paper Having extra baggies you can offer guests or other “jeepers” is a good thing too
These items should be dedicated to the jeep and always be there if needed. Don’t remove them – it’s always better to be looking at them than looking for them!
Must-Have Stuff Pick-of-the-Week for your Jeep!
ZAXIDALER Rectangular External Communications Speaker for Ham Radio or CB & Scanners, 5 Watt, Black Colour $15.99