12 Interesting Facts About Jeep

Jeep is currently a part of Stellantis, a multinational automotive group formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group in January 2021. Stellantis owns several well-known brands including Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, and Peugeot, among others.

Jeep, originally a military vehicle manufacturer, has become a globally recognized brand specializing in SUVs and off-road vehicles. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles had owned Jeep since 2014 before the creation of Stellantis.

Market Position:

Jeep is one of the most successful brands within Stellantis, known for its rugged SUVs and off-road capabilities. In the U.S., Jeep is considered one of the top SUV brands, competing with companies like Ford (Bronco), Toyota (Land Cruiser), and Land Rover.

Jeep contributes significantly to Stellantis’ overall revenue, with Jeep sales accounting for billions in revenue annually. As part of Stellantis, the company recorded a revenue of approximately €179.6 billion in 2023.

Interesting Facts About Jeep:

1. Military Origins: The first Jeep was built for military use during World War II in 1941. It was initially called the Willys MB, and its off-road capabilities made it a vital vehicle for American soldiers.
2. Jeep Wave: There is a tradition among Jeep owners known as the “Jeep Wave,” where Jeep drivers wave to one another in recognition of their shared passion for the brand.
3. Iconic Grille Design: Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille is one of the most recognizable design elements in the automotive world and is a key part of the brand’s identity.
4. The Rubicon Trail: The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is named after the Rubicon Trail, a famous off-road trail in the Sierra Nevada. Jeep vehicles have long been associated with conquering challenging terrain, and this trail is a proving ground for their durability.
5. First Civilian Jeep: The first civilian Jeep, the CJ-2A, was introduced in 1945. It was designed for agricultural use but quickly became popular for its versatility and ruggedness.
6. Most Expensive Jeep: The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, with its supercharged 707-horsepower Hellcat engine, is the most expensive Jeep model, with prices exceeding $100,000 depending on features and customizations.
7. Jeep Gladiator: In 2019, Jeep re-entered the pickup truck market with the Jeep Gladiator, combining the off-road capabilities of the Wrangler with the utility of a truck.
8. Global Presence: Jeep is sold in over 140 countries worldwide, making it one of the most globally recognized brands in the SUV market.
9. Jeep Easter Eggs: Jeep vehicles are known for hiding small “Easter eggs” in their design. For example, tiny images of the original Jeep, animals, or other symbols are sometimes found in unexpected places like the windshield or rearview mirror.
10. Longest Continuous Production: The Jeep Wrangler (originally the CJ series) is one of the longest-running production vehicles in the world. It has been in continuous production since 1941, evolving from a military vehicle to one of the most iconic off-road SUVs.
11. Most Awarded SUV: The Jeep Grand Cherokee holds the title of being the most awarded SUV of all time, with numerous accolades for safety, luxury, and off-road performance.
12. Highest Altitude: A Jeep vehicle holds the record for the highest altitude reached by a vehicle, climbing to an altitude of 21,804 feet (6,646 meters) on the Ojos del Salado volcano in Chile in 2007.

Famous Owners of Jeep:

1. Gisele Bündchen & Tom Brady:
   • Car: Jeep Grand Cherokee.
   • Location: The celebrity couple has been seen in their Jeep Grand Cherokee around the U.S., notably in Boston and Los Angeles.
   • Date: Spotted frequently in the early 2010s.
2. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson:
   • Car: Jeep Wrangler.
   • Location: The actor and wrestler is often seen with his customized Jeep Wrangler, both in personal use and social media posts.
   • Date: Spotted frequently throughout the 2010s.
3. Brad Pitt:
   • Car: Jeep Cherokee.
   • Location: Brad Pitt has been seen driving a Jeep Cherokee in Los Angeles, often for his daily errands.
   • Date: Spotted in the late 2010s.
4. Arnold Schwarzenegger:
   • Car: Jeep Wrangler.
   • Location: The former California governor and actor is a well-known fan of rugged vehicles and has been seen driving a customized Jeep Wrangler in Los Angeles.
   • Date: Spotted in the early 2010s.