Jeep

Jeep is the oldest off-vehicle brand on the market and a legend of the automobile industry. The Jeep marque has passed through many hands since its first appearance in 1941, including Willys-Overland, Kaiser-Jeep and American Motors. Jeep has been a division of Chrysler since 1987. The first Jeep was built on a request from the US Army for a four-wheel drive reconnaissance vehicle to use in World War II. Of the 135 companies that were applied to, only two responded - the American Bantam Car Company and Willy-Overland. Bantam completed the design and prototype, but did not have the resources to supply enough vehicles, so the commission passed to Willys. The first Army Jeeps, based largely on Bantam’s design, were built by Willys and Ford in 1941, and became the primary light 4-wheel drive vehicle of the US Army and allies during the World War II and postwar period. The first Civilian Jeeps – the CJ series – were based on the basic form and style of the Army Jeeps. Released in 1945, the new Jeeps were widely praised by designers across a range of industries. The Museum of Modern Art has repeatedly exhibited the Jeep in its collection, celebrating the vehicle as “a masterpiece of functionalist design”. The Jeep brand continues to inspire a loyal following – enthusiasts from all around the world gather at special events dedicated to their favourite 4WD. The Jeep Jamboree and Camp Jeep celebrate the iconic vehicle yearly, and in several countries, including Australia. Jeep has produced an enormous range of models for civilian and military use in its lifetime. The brand continues to enjoy huge success in the Australian 4X4 market with the top-selling Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Patriot, as well as the Commander, Liberty and Compass overseas.