Jeep History - 1940 WILLYS QUAD

Jeep History - 1940 WILLYS QUAD

THE FIRST JEEP BRAND 4x4

In June 1940, with the US on the verge of entering World War II, the US Army solicited bids from 135 automakers for a 1/4 ton "light reconnaissance vehicle" tailored to Army specifications. Only three companies responded — Bantam, Willys, and Ford — but, within a year's time they collectively produced the template for the vehicle known worldwide as the "jeep".

Willys-Overland delivered the prototype "Quad" (named for the 4x4 system it featured), to the U.S. Army on Armistice Day (Veteran's Day), November of 1940. The design was completed in a remarkable 75 days.

Only two prototypes were made.

6th Jun 2023

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