What does it signify?
Jeep has a lot to offer. Twitter was taken by the off-road brand with a photo but not of a car, but instead a sign showing a car. The sign has the number 40.4 printed on it. The tweet, however, is cleverly double-entendred and reads: “A sign that there are more things to come.” Motor1.com users, it’s time for us to do some sleuthing.
The tweet was sent at 4:02 PM EDT on June 21. While the date doesn’t really matter, we couldn’t help but notice how 4:02 is very close to 4:04. It doesn’t take much to connect 40.4 to 4:02. Jeep’s social media team may have been shooting for a 4;04 tweet time on Twitter, and then got slightly distracted. This further emphasizes the importance of 40.4. This is where we’ll be focusing our attention.
We believe that 40.4 may be an electric performance. This could indicate an upgraded Jeep Wrangler4xe with a 40.4 mile electric-only range. This would almost double the 22-mile range of the plug in hybrid off-roader, and would be very impressive in PHEV land. It could also be a 40.4-kilowatt hour battery. This would be an incredible upgrade and the battery pack is located under the second row.
More evidence supports this. We reported on June 11 that Jeep had updated its Facebook cover photo with the interior of what appeared to be a plug-in hybrid vehicle. A few details were found by Jeep enthusiasts to indicate it was a Gladiator interior. However, it could be a higher-performance 4xe. We have faith in Jeep enthusiasts when we see even the smallest details. The latest teaser clearly depicts a Wrangler. We’re more inclined to believe the Facebook photo of a Gladiator greenhouse than they claim.
What could the number also mean? This sign looks like something you would see on a trail. So what does it mean for off-roaders who are on trails? Ground clearance is obvious, but 40.4 inches seems too extreme for something made at the factory. When crawling over obstacles, it is important to know the difference between approach, departure and breakover angles. Water fording can also be a consideration. The Wrangler can currently handle 30 inches. This is not far from 40.
Jeep is up to something, whatever the case may be. We’re left guessing until we get more teasers, or complete disclosure. What about it Jeepers? These are our best guesses, but we would love to hear your theories. Let us know your thoughts in the comments.