Designed to fit a 'leisure transport' role for outdoorsy types, Jeep has titled their new concept an Urban Mobility Vehicle. That's an interesting definition considering the Treo's capability off-road, but at the very least comes clean in admitting that the majority of SUV owners never leave pavement.
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| Two electric motors, one to power the front wheels and the other in back, allow for low-cost, zero emissions efficiency. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
Whether on asphalt or not, the Treo's drivetrain is a welcome alternative. Simply, quietly and cleanly, it's powered by electricity. Two electric motors, one to motivate the front wheels and the other in back, allow for low-cost, zero emissions efficiency as well as the traction benefits of permanent all-wheel drive. While electric energy is in charge, Jeep hasn't shut the door on other fueling possibilities; hydrogen fuel cells and drive by wire technology can be easily adapted to the Treo's platform.
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| The Treo's interior is just as radical as its exterior, featuring styling not usually found in Jeep products. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
Much like its extreme exterior, the Treo features an array of innovative technologies and styling normally not found in Jeep products. For starters, the car is set up with a 3-seat configuration, including a split-folding bench up front for two and a single bucket in back. While ideal for multiple passengers the Treo can get even more flexible, displaying the unique ability to switch between left and right hand drive. The instruments, dash-mounted gear shifter, steering wheel, column and pedals are a single unit, which shifts along a center railing on the cockpit. The rudimentary-looking single LCD instrumentation cluster delivers touch-screen access to many of the car's controls. From the stereo system to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, it's all controlled and operated by a tiny little screen.