75th Anniversary Jeep Concept Reports for Duty

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its Jeep SUV brand with a special concept model.

FCA calls the Wrangler 75th Salute commemorative vehicle a modern interpretation of the original 1941 Willys MB that soon became known as a Jeep for military applications. Production of civilian-model Jeeps started in 1945.

The concept was built on July 15 (the anniversary of Willys-Overland being awarded its first U.S. military contract) at the carmaker’s plant in Toledo, Ohio.

Sporting a traditional military olive-drab paint job, the concept model is based on a two-door Wrangler Sport. Power comes from a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission.

Other features include 16-inch steel wheels wrapped in 32-inch military non-directional tires, hood latches, a rear-mounted spare tire, steel front and rear bumpers with tow hooks, and low back canvas seats. There are no doors or B-pillars.

The concept vehicle is in addition to several 75th anniversary models Jeep is selling this year. An all-new Wrangler is due next year.