2000 Jeep Commander 2
(Introduced October 23, 2000)

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To compensate for the additional weight and cost of the fuel cell system, Jeep designers incorporated DaimlerChrysler's unique injection-molded thermoplastic body technology, demonstrating the weight savings that could be achieved with injection molded plastic.

The plastic body technology, first shown in the fall of 1997 in the Composite Concept Vehicle (CCV) and more recently in the Dodge ESX3, saves up to 50 percent in body weight, 10 to 50 percent in manufacturing costs and provides near 100 percent recyclability. Using molded-in-color plastic allowed designers to embody a very machined, high-tech feel to the surface appearance, unlike the design restrictions with stamped metal.

Because of its lightweight body, Commander 2 weighs 5700 pounds, slightly more than typical full-size SUVs. This includes more than 2500 pounds for the hybrid-electric fuel cell powertrain.

The silver-bodied Commander 2's overall height of 69.4 inches is equivalent to the 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee. It stands 80 inches wide overall, more than seven inches wider than Grand Cherokee. This wider stance helps intensify drivers' sense of security and enabled designers to add three comfortable bucket seats in the rear, as well as extra storage space in the center console. The 180 degree convex side view mirrors eliminate blind spots and have wipers for better visibility during inclement weather. In addition, the tow hitch cover folds down and doubles as a step for ease in reaching the roof.

Functionality is a key component not only in Commander 2's exterior design, but also in its roomy interior. The driver "Infotronic" system performs as a mobile office with a removable toaster-style pop-up "plug and play" laptop computer docked in the center console. The system provides global positioning system (GPS) data and Internet for real-time weather and traffic information and directions, along with e-mail phone and vehicle diagnostic information. A liquid crystal display (LCD) screen in the instrument panel connects to the driver's laptop. The steering column houses a small microphone that allows the driver to access the mobile office via a "user independent" voice recognition system.

"By incorporating your personal laptop from either the home or the office in the 'plug and play' system, it is customized to fit your needs and can be regularly updated with the latest computer software," said Steve Buckley, Electronics Innovation Manager at DaimlerChrysler's Liberty & Technical Affairs. "Also, you can keep your hands on the wheel and still get business done on the drive to and from the office by verbally sending commands to your computer," Buckley added. "Commands such as sending e-mails, getting directions, reviewing traffic, checking vehicle systems and dialing phone numbers are easily done with voice commands."

The instrument panel contains another unique feature that provides extra security: a tiny camera positioned to take a picture of the driver. If the vehicle is stolen, a picture of the thief is electronically sent to the authorities. The instrument panel is further enhanced with chrome details and a brushed aluminum surface accented with light burl wood on both the panel and steering wheel. Sophisticated navy blue is the primary color of the interior and seats, complemented by cognac leather trim inserts.

Commander 2 offers advanced design and technologies that will meet customers' needs in a clean, efficient SUV that will address the environmental challenges of the 21st century.