In a debut that caught many in the automotive industry by surprise, Chrysler, LLC unveiled three extended-range electric concepts, one of which the company promises to have on the road by 2010.

Among the three was an electric-powered Jeep Wrangler. Surprisingly, (or maybe not so surprisingly, considering the wheezy performance of the 3.8L) the electric version out-performs the gas version by a substantial 2.5 seconds in the 0-60 sprint. Those of you that are torque addicts may be happy to know that electric motors produce their maximum torque at 0 rpm, and the electric Jeep's output is 295 lb./ft., better than its gas-powered counterpart.

Aside from a few key figures, specifications were somewhat vague as to the specifics of the range extender, type of electrical motor, and other details. Supposedly, Chrysler is also experimenting with in-wheel motors, which would be especially exciting for off-road enthusiasts, as this would allow, in theory, for an infinitely variable low-range, as well as independent, per-wheel traction control.

Chrysler is claiming up to 400 miles on only 8 gallons of gas, including 40 miles of all-electric range (those of you that have followed the development of the Chevy Volt may find that number vaguely familiar.) If true, that would give the Wrangler an eye-popping 50 miles per gallon on a full charge over 400 miles.

Also sure to irk the traditionalists is the Jeep's shifter. Essentially a knob on the dashboard, not unlike an HVAC knob, right below the multifunction display. So long, transfer case.

So...topic for discussion...Electric Jeep...Thumbs-up, or thumbs down?