Driving a Jeep is an adventure that extends well beyond the asphalt. Once you become a proud Jeep owner, you join a tight-knit community of off-road enthusiasts. Forget about Taylor Swift and her “Swifties” – the Jeep Club is the ultimate group to be a part of in 2024.
Every year, almost a million brand-new Jeeps are sold, proving the enduring popularity of the brand. Yet, even after 80 long years, there are still some aspects of the Jeep brand’s history that remain enigmatic. At Savage 61, we shed some light on the unknown with five obscure Jeep facts.
The Origins of Its Name Are Unclear
It’s pretty straightforward to figure out how Ford, the brainchild of Henry Ford himself, got its name. Likewise, Buick, Chevrolet, and other auto brand names derived from their founders.
However, the origins of “Jeep” remain somewhat elusive. The prevailing theory suggests that it was derived from the phonetic pronunciation of “GP,” which stood for “General Purpose.” This designation was given to World War II vehicles that had no specific use. It’s quite plausible that soldiers started referring to these vehicles in such a way, and the term caught on from there.
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 pet who could go anywhere and do anything; perhaps soldiers associated the same freedom of movement with their off-road, 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 established in 1941, just as America was gearing up to enter World War II. As mentioned before, Jeeps were classified as “General Purpose” vehicles during the war. But was the Jeep given this label because it was a generic vehicle without a defined purpose or identity? Or because it was a versatile vehicle capable of performing a wide range of tasks? The military clearly thought the latter, as Jeeps ranked amongst their most widely used vehicles throughout the war. In fact, Jeep’s contribution was so commendable that they were awarded a Purple Heart for their role.
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 to the war effort.
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, the process of determining the optimal number of slots was not an easy one for the engineers.
Initially, the 1940 Jeep sported a grille with 13 slots – perhaps a tribute to the original number of United States colonies. Nevertheless, the designers soon started reducing the number of slots to achieve a more streamlined design. By 1943, the Jeep grille featured only nine slots, ultimately evolving into the now-legendary seven-slot grille that we know today. This iconic design element was solidified by the end 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 as inspiration for your own work the next time someone “trashes” it.
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 for family photo ops.
Jump Into a Jeep Today
Now that you know more than you ever have about Jeep, there’s only one thing standing in your way of becoming an official expert: the keys to the ignition. Pay us a visit at Savage 61 today and we’ll help change that. With our huge selection of new and pre-owned Jeeps, from the highly capable Renegade to the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Pennsylvania’s most awarded dealership will get you on the road to your next great adventure.
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