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Jeeps

Jeeps with a capital-J is the name of a Chrysler-owned brand, though the word can be used without capitalization to indicate any off-road vehicle. The source of the name is still disputed, and nobody can point to a definitive explanation for the common name, but everybody can point to the time when the vehicles themselves became common. Jeeps were used during the Second World War, manufactured by Willys-Overland and Ford. As a result of both companies manufacturing the vehicles for the armed forces, many of these models have interchangeable parts. Willys continued manufacturing the vehicle after the end of the War for civilian use, with a few changes to make it more appropriate for civilians. The popularity grew over the years, and Jeeps were a strong seller for Willys from the point they started selling them until Kaiser bought Willys. Later, Chrysler bought Kaiser, and the use of "Willys" disappeared entirely. Now the models of Jeep you see on the road have some superficial similarities to the earlier models, but they also have some very big differences in terms of engine, power, and body. They are still the most popular vehicle for the off-roading and still have an excellent reputation for taking all kinds of abuse without breaking down, rusting out, or being unreliable. Because of the ongoing popularity, Chrysler recently updated the look and the name of the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Cherokee, marking the fourth major change of direction and design since its inception during the forties.