FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) US (www.fcagroup.com) has awarded the production of the Power Electronics module for the Jeep Wrangler PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) to its Toledo Machining Plant — a move that will see the 54-year-old Ohio facility play a key role in helping the company meet future regulatory requirements.

As part of its Capital Markets Day presentation on 1 June this year, FCA committed to expanding its electrified propulsion systems in “global architectures spanning the full range of vehicle segments”.

The Jeep Wrangler PHEV, which is expected to be launched in 2020, will be one of more than 30 vehicle types with electrified solutions by 2022.

Brian Harlow, head of manufacturing at FCA North America, said: “The in-sourcing of this highly advanced work to Toledo Machining is a reflection of the commitment the workforce has made to improving processes through the implementation of World Class Manufacturing.

"As the most iconic of the Jeep nameplates, it is critical that we flawlessly execute the launch of the Wrangler PHEV. The Toledo Machining employees have made a strong business case as to why we should put our faith in them to deliver a great product.”

The Power Electronics module for the Wrangler houses two key electrified powertrain components: the power inverter module and the integrated dual charger module, which consists of the on-board charger and the DC/DC converter.

Nearly 850 Toledo Machining employees currently produce steering columns and torque converters for a number of FCA factories in the USA, Canada and Mexico.