Jeep Celebrates 80 Years of Innovation
Jeep’s former name is the Willys-Overland Co. before receiving its trademark for the “Jeep” name back in June 1950. Ten years before its rebranding, Willys-Overland signed a contract with the United States War Department to commence production of the first military “Jeep vehicle,” 80 years later, the Jeep brand is known worldwide. Jeep further justifies its leadership position in the off-road and utility vehicle segment with a product lineup that continues to grow into new segments. According to Jeep CEO Christian Meunier, the introduction of the three-row Jeep Grand Cherokee L and all-new Wagoneer establishes a foothold in the premium SUV market that Jeep is confident in selling to family-oriented buyers.
Achieving zero emissions is also a goal Jeep has its eyes on, with the company planning on introducing the first Jeep Grand Cherokee with plug-in hybrid 4xe technology very soon. By 2025, Jeep plans on offering a zero-emission fully electric Jeep 4xe in every SUV segment. To celebrate its 80th anniversary, Jeep is showcasing an 80th-anniversary video on the Official Jeep YouTube Channel.
The Evolution of Jeep
The Jeep was born during the early stages of World War II in an effort to supply the U.S. military with the Capability to transport infantry and other supplies to the front lines. Under its contract in 1941, Willys-Overland started producing more than 350,000 Jeeps over the span of four years, eventually becoming the basis for the civilian-grade Jeep. The Willys Jeep falls under the “Off-road capable light military utility vehicle” category, carrying a 2.2 L I-4 Willys L134 “Go-Devil” Engine with an output of 60hp and a maximum speed of 65mph.
Fast-forward to the present day and brand new Jeep vehicles to resemble similar design qualities from its veteran counterparts, such as its iconic slotted front grille and round headlights. Jeep is gradually transitioning from gasoline engines to fully electric and hybrid powertrains for a greener and more sustainable future. With the arrival of the “4XE” name to the Jeep lineup, Jeep now owns its design language for building electric vehicles. As the show’s main star, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4XE leads the brand’s electrification strategy moving forward, paving the way for a full-electric Wrangler. Powering the Wrangler 4XE is a 2.0 L 4-cylinder Turbo engine with Hybrid Technology that makes 375hp and 470 lb-ft of instant torque. With a 49 mpg(e) rating, the Wrangler 4XE has a driving range of 370 miles and an acceleration time of 0-60mph in about 6 seconds.
Jeep’s Global Expansion
Some highlights of Jeep’s expansion efforts include the Jeep Renegade and the Jeep Gladiator to add more flavors to its lineup. The company also expands its production capabilities outside of the United States to different markets like Europe, Brazil, India, and China, allowing foreign consumers to experience iconic Jeep capability. With a diverse product portfolio and factories in more than six countries, Jeep has widespread influence worldwide with more than enough opportunities to leverage its sales ability.
Iconic 4×4 Capability
The first 4×4 Jeep available to the general public was the 1945 CJ-2A Light-Duty AWD Jeep that shares similar design cues from the military-grade version of 1941. However, notable changes and improvements include:
- A fold-down tailgate.
- A side-mounted spare tire.
- Larger headlamps.
- A power take-off unit.
Given its 80-year track record, Jeep continues to be a provider of open-air freedom and off-road Capability. Please stay connected with us at Cape Coral Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and receive all the latest news from Jeep, as well as vehicle updates. If you are looking for a new Jeep, check out our SUV inventory for limited-time deals and discounts you can’t find anywhere else. Our staff will answer any questions you have about financing or leasing a new or certified pre-owned Visit us or give us a call today!
Image Source: Jeep