AUTONEWS

Jeep Avenger Stargazer

Avenger Stargazer is a unique concept designed to encourage people to learn about the night sky. According to research conducted by Jeep, almost a third of people admit that they lack knowledge about the cosmos, and a similar number would say that they would struggle to recognize Orion's belt. Yet nearly three quarters of Britons say they are interested in learning more about the night sky. That's why Jeep teamed up with the non-profit DarkSky UK, turning its Avenger 4xe into an off-road stargazing machine. The small SUV is equipped with everything you need to observe the stars. The 325-litre trunk contains a custom-made cabinet with binoculars, lamps, all-weather clothing and, of course, a telescope. It is a Vaonis Vespera Pro Smart Telescope, which can be mounted on the roof hatch of the Avenger.

According to research commissioned by Jeep itself in the United Kingdom, almost a third of people admit to understanding almost nothing about space, and a good portion wouldn't even be able to identify Orion's Belt. On the other hand, most Britons say they have a real interest in learning about the subject.

Jeep then saw an opportunity and joined forces with DarkSky UK, an organization that works to reduce light pollution and promote stargazing. From this partnership, the Avenger Stargazer was born. The concept is based on the 4xe version of the SUV, but undergoes a series of modifications to transform the model into a kind of astronomical laboratory on wheels. In the 325-liter trunk, Jeep installed a custom-made cabinet with everything a beginner needs to observe the sky. The unique Avengers foil shows planets and constellations that you might want to pay attention to. The interior lights have been modified to produce a red light. This helps mitigate light pollution, which prevents people in populated areas from seeing stars.

Meanwhile there’s also a custom-built, integrated cabinet fitted into the boot that houses binoculars, red-light headtorches, and weatherproof clothing.

Kris Cholmondeley, Managing Director of Jeep UK, said: “At Jeep, outdoor exploration and freedom are at the heart of what we do. Through this collaboration, we hope to encourage people to get outside and to look up at the night sky, as well as take measures to reduce their light pollution. Moreover, working alongside DarkSky UK allows us to draw attention to Dark Sky Reserves, helping Brits to find their nearest designated stargazing location with our simple downloadable guide.” The Stargazer has been launched to coincide with a new trim level for the Jeep Avenger - called ‘Summit SkyView’. The grade builds on the existing Summit trim but adds a sunroof, sat nav and hands-free tailgate. Summit SkyView models are available on petrol and e-Hybrid engines - but not with a fully-electric powertrain. It also comes as the UK prepares for the Geminid meteor shower- a dazzling display of shooting stars that’s due to peak in the early hours of Sunday 14 December. Stunning Llyn y Dywarchen, a mountain-flanked lake to the west of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), was highlighted as one of the most magical spots. Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park ranked second in our list and has many stargazing locations to choose from, not least the Tomintoul and Glenlivet International Dark Sky Park. Meanwhile Northumberland National Park completed the top three. Kielder Observatory is a must if you’re visiting that area of northern England and runs stargazing events throughout the year.

While this Stargazer is just a concept, Jeep has announced that it is adding a new SkyView trim package to the Avenger range. It will be available for gasoline-powered and hybrid models early next year, and builds on the current top-of-the-line Summit specification, by adding a roof hatch, satellite navigation, hands-free boot door opening, and keyless unlocking "for all those who want to use their car to explore the world around them". Prices have not yet been announced.

Autonews