Jeep is one of the most iconic American automobile brands, known worldwide for its durability, off-road capability, and distinctive styling. The origins of Jeep date back to the late 1930s. At this time, conflicts were brewing overseas that would soon lead to World War II. The U.S. Army realized it needed a new type of vehicle that could provide support on the battlefield.
SECOND WORLD WAR
The prototype vehicle created for the Army featured four-wheel drive, excellent traction, and an open-air design permitting it to easily maneuver on rough terrain. It was compact and lightweight as well, allowing it to be shipped around the globe and airdropped where needed. The Army put out a call for automakers to design this new vehicle suited for reconnaissance missions. Several companies responded, but it was Willys-Overland Motors that developed the winning prototype that met all the Army’s needs. This paved the way for the production of the first Jeep model, known as the Willys MB, that would gain fame during WWII. While you can’t purchase this today at a jeep dealer waxahachie, at the time, it was just what the country’s military needed. The first Jeep model went into full production in 1941. It featured four-wheel drive, a gearshift on the floor, and open-top rear seats.
POST WWII
After World War II, Willys-Overland launched the CJ (Civilian Jeep) aimed at the commercial market. Farmers, construction workers, and outdoor enthusiasts embraced the rugged civilian Jeep. To meet demand, Willys licensed the model to other manufacturers, launching international production. The CJ model maintained the original Jeep’s capabilities but added comforts like roll-up windows.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Jeep production passed to new automotive companies. Kaiser Motors purchased Willys-Overland in 1953 and took over the production of military and civilian Jeep vehicles. Seeking to expand into new markets, Kaiser introduced Jeep’s first independent front suspension system and debuted new models like the Jeep FC-150 pickup.
Then in 1970, American Motors Corporation (AMC) acquired Kaiser’s Jeep operations. Under AMC, Jeep rolled out new models aimed at mainstream consumers like the Jeep Wagoneer – one of the first luxury 4x4s. AMC also introduced the Jeep Gladiator pickup and the sporty 2-door Jeepster Commando. Jeep’s reputation for off-road mastery grew in this era, thanks to racing victories, ever-improving 4WD systems, and marketing campaigns emphasizing adventure. Models like the CJ-5 cemented Jeep as the brand of choice for off-road enthusiasts.
NEW OWNERSHIPS
Chrysler purchased Jeep from AMC in 1987. Focusing on the brand heritage, Jeep launched retro-styled models like the Wrangler, honoring the original. However, financial struggles at Chrysler led to changes. In 1998, Chrysler merged with Daimler-Benz, and in 2007, DaimlerChrysler sold Jeep to Cerberus Capital Management.
Jeep joined the Fiat and Chrysler alliance in 2009 under Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA). This ushered in an era of global expansion and new models for Jeep. The brand focused on fuel efficiency improvements while retaining rugged capability. New models included the Jeep Renegade and all-new Cherokee.
In 2021, Jeep became part of Stellantis, formed from the merger of FCA and French automaker Groupe PSA. Today, the Jeep lineup includes updated Wrangler and Grand Cherokee models along with smaller SUVs like the Compass.
Jeep maintains a strong image built around adventure, freedom, and authenticity. Nearly 80 years after the original WWII-era Jeep, modern Jeeps retain the marque’s reputation for off-road mastery and durability, evolving with the times while upholding its heritage. Jeep remains an iconic American SUV brand with an adventurous spirit and worldwide appeal.
