Jeep, an iconic American brand synonymous with rugged durability and off-road capability, has a fascinating history of ownership changes. From its humble beginnings as a military vehicle to its current status as a global automotive powerhouse, Jeep’s journey is as adventurous as the vehicles it produces. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the rich history of Jeep ownership, its current status, and everything you need to know about this legendary brand.
Jeep: Company History
The story of Jeep begins in 1940, amidst the looming threat of World War II. The United States Army, recognizing the need for a versatile light reconnaissance vehicle, put out a call for bids. Three companies rose to the challenge: Bantam, Willys-Overland, and Ford. While each contributed to the ultimate design, it was Willys-Overland, based in Toledo, Ohio, that ultimately secured the contract.
The result of this military contract was the Willys MB, a vehicle that would go on to become legendary. General George C. Marshall famously described it as “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare.” The Willys MB, which would later be known simply as the Jeep, proved to be an incredibly versatile 4×4 vehicle capable of tackling almost any terrain or task.
During World War II, the Jeep served in various capacities:
- Troops and supplies transporter
- Machine-gun mounted infantry vehicle
- Ambulance
- Tractor
- Fire truck
- River-forder
- Snow-plow
The Jeep’s versatility and reliability made it an indispensable asset to the Allied forces. It played crucial roles in major military operations, including the D-Day landings at Normandy, the battle of Iwo Jima, campaigns in North Africa, and the mountainous terrain of Italy. By the end of the war, over 600,000 Jeeps had been produced for the war effort.
After World War II, Willys-Overland retained the Jeep trademark and shifted its focus to civilian production. The company modified the military Willys MB into the civilian Willys CJ-2A. They also introduced new models like the 1946 Willys Station Wagon and the 1947 Jeep Pickup, expanding the Jeep lineup for peacetime use.
Changes In Jeep Ownerships Over Time
The post-war era saw Jeep change hands multiple times, often serving as one of the most profitable brands for its struggling parent companies. This series of ownership changes has been dubbed “the Jeep Curse” by some industry observers. Let’s explore the timeline of Jeep’s ownership changes:
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- Willys-Overland (1941-1953): The original creators of the Jeep.
- Kaiser Motors (1953-1970): Kaiser Motors purchased Willys-Overland for $62.3 million in 1953. The company was later renamed Kaiser-Jeep International Corps.
- American Motors Corporation (AMC) (1970-1987): AMC acquired Kaiser-Jeep in 1970. Despite strong Jeep sales, AMC faced financial difficulties, losing $78.3 million over two years.
- Renault (1979-1987): The French automaker Renault purchased a 25% stake in AMC in 1979 to help stabilize the struggling company.
- Chrysler Corporation (1987-1998): Chrysler acquired AMC for $1.5 billion in 1987, primarily to gain control of the valuable Jeep brand. At this time, Jeep was estimated to be worth $850 million.
- DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007): In 1998, Daimler-Benz purchased Chrysler for $36 billion, forming DaimlerChrysler. This “merger of equals” was short-lived.
- Cerberus Capital Management (2007-2009): DaimlerChrysler sold most of Chrysler to private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management for $7.5 billion. The company was renamed Chrysler LLC.
- Fiat (2009-2021): Following Chrysler’s bankruptcy during the 2008 financial crisis, Fiat acquired a stake in the company. Fiat completed its merger with Chrysler in 2014, forming Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).
- Stellantis (2021-present): In January 2021, FCA merged with French automaker Peugeot S.A. (Group PSA) to form Stellantis, Jeep’s current owner.
The Present-Day Ownership Situation Of Jeep
Today, Jeep is owned by Stellantis, a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and the French PSA Group. The name “Stellantis” comes from the Latin verb “Stello,” meaning “to brighten with stars,” symbolizing the powerful constellation of individual brands coming together in this merger.
Stellaris is a truly global company:
- It’s the 6th largest automaker worldwide.
- The company has annual sales of approximately eight million vehicles.
- Stellantis employs around 400,000 people globally.
- It’s a Franco-Italian-American venture with significant operations in those countries.
- Officially, Stellantis is incorporated in Amsterdam, Netherlands, making it a Dutch company.
Stellantis owns 14 popular car brands, including:
- Jeep
- Dodge
- Ram
- Chrysler
- Fiat
- Alfa Romeo
- Maserati
- Peugeot
- Citroën
- Opel
- Vauxhall
The company has industrial operations in nearly 30 countries and a commercial presence in more than 130 markets, making it a truly global automotive powerhouse.
Where Is Jeep Made?
While Jeep is now part of a global conglomerate, it remains true to its American roots in terms of production. The majority of Jeep vehicles are still manufactured in the United States, with some production facilities in other countries to serve local markets.
Jeep has manufacturing plants in several countries:
- United States
- Mexico
- Brazil
- Italy
- China
- India
However, most Jeep models are primarily assembled in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of where some popular Jeep models are made:
- Jeep Wrangler: Manufactured at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Toledo, Ohio. This facility has been producing Wranglers for decades and is not far from the original Willys-Overland factory.
- Jeep Cherokee: Assembled at the US Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Illinois. The Cherokee ranks fourth on the Cars.com American-Made Index for 2021.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: Manufactured in Detroit, Michigan. It ranks 16th on the American-Made Index.
- Jeep Gladiator: Assembled in the United States.
- Jeep Compass: Assembled in the United States.
- Jeep Renegade: An exception to the rule, the Renegade is assembled in Italy, alongside the Fiat 500x.
The Toledo Assembly Complex, where the iconic Jeep Wrangler is produced, is a massive facility:
- 3.64 million square feet in size
- Located on 312 acres
- Employs nearly 6,500 workers
It’s worth noting that the new 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is produced at Stellantis’ Detroit Assembly Complex Mack Plant, which is Detroit’s first new vehicle assembly plant in decades.
What Vehicles Does Jeep Produce?
Jeep’s current lineup includes a diverse range of SUVs and one pickup truck, catering to various consumer needs from compact city driving to serious off-roading. Here’s a rundown of Jeep’s current vehicle lineup:
- Jeep Wrangler: The iconic Jeep model, is known for its exceptional off-road capabilities and removable top and doors. It’s available in both two-door and four-door (Unlimited) versions.
- Jeep Wrangler 4xe: A plug-in hybrid version of the Wrangler, offering improved fuel efficiency without compromising off-road performance.
- Jeep Cherokee: A compact SUV that balances on-road comfort with off-road capability.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee: A midsize SUV offering a more luxurious experience while maintaining Jeep’s off-road heritage.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee L: A new three-row version of the Grand Cherokee, catering to larger families.
- Jeep Compass: A small crossover SUV that offers Jeep capability in a more city-friendly package.
- Jeep Renegade: The smallest Jeep, a subcompact SUV that still offers respectable off-road ability.
- Jeep Gladiator: Jeep’s pickup truck, combining Wrangler styling with truck utility. It’s the only pickup truck on the market with a removable top.
- Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer: These new models, introduced in 2021, are Jeep’s entry into the full-size, three-row luxury SUV segment.
Each of these vehicles carries the Jeep DNA of capability and adventure, while also incorporating modern technology and comfort features to meet the demands of today’s consumers.
How to Buy the Best Jeep Gifts for Friends and Family (w/ Pics)
For Jeep enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of branded merchandise and accessories that make for perfect gifts. Here are some ideas for Jeep-themed gifts:
- Jeep-branded clothing: T-shirts, hoodies, and hats with the iconic Jeep logo or images of Jeep vehicles.
- Jeep accessories: Keychains, bottle openers, or phone cases featuring Jeep designs.
- Jeep model cars: Scale models of classic or current Jeep vehicles for collectors.
- Jeep adventure gear: Camping equipment, outdoor gear, or off-road accessories branded with the Jeep logo.
- Jeep home decor: Wall art, throw pillows, or blankets featuring Jeep designs or vintage advertisements.
- Jeep books: Coffee table books about Jeep history or off-road adventure guides.
- Jeep vehicle accessories: For Jeep owners, consider practical accessories like all-weather floor mats, cargo organizers, or off-road lights.
When choosing a gift, consider the recipient’s specific interests within the Jeep world. Are they more interested in the brand’s history, or are they active off-roaders? This can help you select a gift that they’ll truly appreciate.
Did You Know? The Story Behind the Jeep Wave
The Jeep Wave is a unique tradition among Jeep owners, particularly those who drive Wranglers. It’s a simple gesture of camaraderie: when two Jeep drivers pass each other on the road, they exchange a wave.
The origins of this tradition are believed to date back to World War II. Soldiers would wave to each other when passing in Jeeps as a sign of solidarity. After the war, as Jeeps became available to civilians, the tradition continued.
Today, the Jeep Wave is an unwritten rule among Jeep owners, especially in the Wrangler community. It’s a way of acknowledging a shared passion for adventure and the Jeep lifestyle. Some interesting facts about the Jeep Wave:
- There’s an unofficial hierarchy to the wave, with drivers of older or more modified Jeeps often initiating the wave.
- The wave can vary from a full hand-off-the-steering-wheel wave to a simple finger lift, depending on the situation.
- Many Jeep owners take the wave seriously and may feel snubbed if another Jeep driver doesn’t reciprocate.
- The tradition is so ingrained that Jeep has even incorporated it into its marketing, with a “Jeep Wave” customer service program for new vehicle owners.
The Jeep Wave is more than just a greeting; it’s a symbol of the strong community and shared values among Jeep owners. It represents the adventurous spirit, resilience, and camaraderie that have been associated with the Jeep brand since its inception.
In conclusion, the Jeep brand has had a fascinating journey from its origins as a military vehicle to its current status as a global automotive icon. Despite changing hands multiple times, Jeep has maintained its core identity as a maker of capable, adventurous vehicles.
Now under the ownership of Stellantis, Jeep continues to innovate while staying true to its heritage. Whether you’re a long-time Jeep owner or simply an admirer of the brand, understanding Jeep’s ownership history and current status provides valuable insight into this enduring American icon.
FAQs
Who is Jeep owned by now?
Jeep is currently owned by Stellantis, a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation. Stellantis was formed in 2021 through the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and the French PSA Group.
Who owns Jeep Country?
“Jeep Country” is not a specific entity or location that is owned by anyone. The term is likely referring to areas popular among Jeep enthusiasts for off-roading or where Jeep vehicles are commonly used.
What are Jeep owners called?
Jeep owners are often referred to as “Jeepers.” This term is commonly used within the Jeep community to describe enthusiasts and owners of Jeep vehicles.
Who made the Jeep?
The original Jeep was developed by Willys-Overland in response to a U.S. Army contract during World War II. While Bantam and Ford also contributed to the design, Willys-Overland won the primary contract and is credited with creating the first Jeep.
