How much could the sheetmetal on the Wrangler weigh anyway? it's just a steel frame with a few flimsy sheets covering it. Would AL hood and doors even save 150-200 pounds?Marchionne has been quoted as saying "There will be a large portion of that vehicle that will be aluminum. It will not be all aluminum... We've run the numbers and we've simulated mileage and the impact... Because of the difference in cost--not just of the material but the actual assembly process-- I think we can do almost as well without doing it all-aluminum. I think we can get very close."
Since we know production is staying in Toledo, it can be guessed that the body will be primarily if not all steel and get aluminum hood, doors, and tailgate.
I've also read that we might see some aluminum in the suspension - knuckles and portions of the axle.Marchionne has been quoted as saying "There will be a large portion of that vehicle that will be aluminum. It will not be all aluminum... We've run the numbers and we've simulated mileage and the impact... Because of the difference in cost--not just of the material but the actual assembly process-- I think we can do almost as well without doing it all-aluminum. I think we can get very close."
Since we know production is staying in Toledo, it can be guessed that the body will be primarily if not all steel and get aluminum hood, doors, and tailgate.
How about this for scary? $17,000!With modern day e-coating rust should not be a big issue. Of course high grade aluminum can also corrode if exposed.
For me I don't baby my Wrangler so I'd be worried of an all aluminum JL that could be easily dented/dinged and be harder and more expensive to repair.
Just a few degrees better aerodynamics in terms of the front fascia and windshield will make a big difference on the road at higher speeds. I've got a feeling the JL is going to be a much better road vehicle.I'm coming from a Tacoma but the times I got to drive a Wrangler i always notice how easily it gets wind tossed around on the road. I'm not sure a much lighter version would be good if it keeps its completely boxy design.
I think the turbo 4 may surprise with its power. Especially if it's positioned as the higher more expensive engine choice. A turbo 4 with manual should put down good power due to lower drivetrain loss too compared to an auto.That new 4 banger is going to need an overall lighter vehicle to not feel underpowered i think.