Exploring the world in a Jeep is an exhilarating experience that transcends the road itself. By becoming a Jeep owner, you join a close-knit community of off-road enthusiasts. Move over, Taylor Swift and her “Swifties” – the Jeep Club is the most coveted group to be associated with in 2024.
Each year, nearly one million brand-new Jeeps are sold, demonstrating the lasting appeal of the brand. However, even after 80 years, there are still intriguing aspects of Jeep’s history that continue to puzzle. At Savage L&B, we uncover the mysteries with five lesser-known Jeep facts.
The Origins of Its Name Are Unclear
It’s not hard to deduce how Ford, the brainchild of Henry Ford himself, got its name. Likewise, Buick, Chevrolet, and other auto brand names derived from their founders’ surnames.
But the true origins of the name “Jeep” are still a bit mysterious. The prevailing theory proposes that it came from the phonetic rendition of “GP,” short for “General Purpose.” This was the term applied to World War II vehicles with no specific purpose. It’s quite plausible that soldiers started referring to these vehicles as such, and the shorthand ultimately became the standard.
But then, it’s just as possible that Jeep is named after a 1930’s Popeye comic strip character. Eugene the Jeep was Popeye’s magical companion, bestowed with the ability to traverse any place at any time; maybe soldiers linked its spectacular mobility with their versatile, all-terrain general purpose vehicles? Regardless of how Jeep first became Jeep, the name has since become synonymous with automotive freedom. It also isn’t going anywhere.
They Were Used as Train Cars in WWII
Jeep was founded in 1941, just as America was readying itself to enter World War II. As mentioned earlier, Jeeps were classified as “General Purpose” vehicles during the war. But was the Jeep designated as such because it lacked a specific purpose or identity? Or was it labeled as such because it possessed the versatility to handle a wide range of tasks? The military clearly believed the latter, as Jeeps became some of their most extensively utilized vehicles throughout the war. In fact, Jeep was bestowed with a Purple Heart for their contribution to the war effort.
A notable advantage of Jeeps was their ability to travel on railroad tracks, allowing the formation of “Jeep trains.” These converted railways enabled the transportation of up to 10 tons, ensuring smooth supply lines. The Jeeps’ versatility in seamlessly transitioning between railway and conventional wheels made them an indispensable asset.
The Seven-Slot Grille Once Had 13 Slots
Jeep is widely recognized for its iconic seven-slot grille that has become synonymous with the brand. However, determining the optimal number of slots was a gradual process for the engineers.
The 1940 Jeep boasted a grille with 13 slots, perhaps an homage to the original number of United States colonies. However, the designers quickly began reducing the slots in order to achieve a sleeker design. By 1943, the Jeep grille showcased a mere nine slots, eventually evolving into the iconic seven-slot grille that has become synonymous with the brand. This distinct design element became firmly established by the close of World War II in 1945.
The Color of Jeep is Trash
That’s not a knock – it’s just very literal! The Anvil Jeep color took direct inspiration from a trash can in the Jeep design studio. It became such a hit that it was eventually used for the Jeep Wrangler JK. Take this to heart the next time someone calls your own work trash.
It’s More Than a Vehicle Brand – It’s a Family Sport
In 1953, a man named Mark A. Smith organized the first Jeep trek across the Rubicon Trail. This became a tradition, eventually dubbed Jeep Jamborees. Fast-forward to today, where the spiritual successor to these Jamborees exists in the form of Jeeping, a modern term that involves using Jeeps for off-road sport.
Exploring the great outdoors through Jeeping is an adventurous activity that the whole family can enjoy. Navigating cliff sides, tackling steep inclines, and conquering off-road trails enables you to fully experience the impressive power and capability of your Jeep. Plus, it’s a fantastic opportunity to fill out the family photo album.
Jump Into a Jeep Today
Now that you’ve received your crash course in Jeep lore, there’s only one thing standing in your way of becoming an true expert: the keys to your own Jeep vehicle. Pay us a visit at Savage L&B today and we’ll help change that. With our wide array of new and used Jeeps, from the 2024 Gladiator to the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, we’ll help you get on the road… so you can go off it.
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