"Commander 2's predecessor, the Jeep Commander, took the Jeep pledge to 'Tread Lightly!' on the environment very seriously. Commander 2 vows to tread even lighter'," said Rich Schaum, Executive Vice President - Product Development for DaimlerChrysler Corporation. "The hybrid drive system integrates an on-board methanol reformer that produces near-zero emissions in one of North America's fastest growing market segments - SUVs."

With its trademark seven-slotted grille and characteristic trapezoidal wheel arches among other visual cues, Commander 2 is clearly a Jeep. But it incorporates the philosophy of Bauhaus design that inspired exterior designer Steve Won, and influenced the clean, precise and mechanical appearance of Commander 2. "It still has true Jeep character, but it is also ultra-modern and sophisticated," Won said.

While Commander 2 duplicates the shape and design of the first Commander, the new-generation vehicle is powered by a completely reengineered fuel cell system. The fuel cell is now combined with dual front and rear electric motors and advanced batteries into a hybrid-electric fuel cell powertrain that represents further advancement in the development of ultra-clean, ultra- efficient transportation for the 21st century. Commander 2 has near-zero tailpipe emissions and improves the average fuel efficiency by up to 12 mpg (gasoline equivalent).

"With the increasing popularity of SUVs, we believe boosting the fuel efficiency of a larger vehicle explores an area that is of interest to our customers," said Bernard Robertson, Senior Vice President - Engineering Technologies and General Manager - Truck Operations.

Commander 2 runs on electricity generated by the fuel cell, which is fueled by hydrogen from an on-board methanol reformer. Methanol was chosen because it is easy to dispense, simpler to reform while producing lower emissions than a gasoline powered fuel cell, and eliminates the need for large hydrogen storage tanks in the vehicle.