The History of Jeep in America | Allentown, PA

Jeep in the 1940s

In June of 1940, three automakers - Willys, Ford, and Bantam - entered bids to the U.S. government for a 500-pound “light reconnaissance vehicle,” which could be of service for military needs. Within just 75 days, the companies worked together to design the new “Jeep.”
 
The vehicle’s 4x4 drivetrain earned it the nickname “Quad.” On Armistice Day in 1940, Willys-Overland delivered Quad to the U.S. Army. After some tweaks and modifications, the military ordered 16,000 units.
 
Officially known as the Willys MB upon its foray into WWII, the Jeep became a crucial element of the war. One MB was provided so much help that it was sent home with a Purple Heart.
 
General George C. Marshall said the Jeep Brand 4x4 was “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare.” Esteemed reporter Ernie Pyle wrote, “It did everything... It constantly carried twice what it was designed for and kept going.” 

Jeep Through the Years

“Jeep” was trademarked by Willys-Overland in 1950. Since then, the brand has introduced revolutionary recreational and family vehicles based on the toughness, versatility, and capability of the 4x4 vehicles that served overseas.
 
1979 saw the release of the Jeep Cherokee. In 1986, Jeep made the first Wrangler, and the following year the Jeep brand was absorbed by Chrysler.
 
Now, Jeep SUVs and trucks provide exciting off-road capability with features such as the forward-facing TrailCam Off-Road Camera while providing families with comfortable, safe, and innovative vehicles.