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Iconic off-roader returns to its storied roots with J8 multipurpose
model primarily developed for military use – but also suitable for civilian
government applications
Chrysler LLC unveiled the Jeep J8 multipurpose vehicle at the 2007 Defence
Systems & Equipment International (DSEi) military trade show, making the
legendary vehicle available for reenlistment in active military service.
"Jeep vehicles made their original debut in 1941 for military duty, and have
built their reputation with more than 65 years as the world's benchmark for
off-road capability and versatility for civilian and military vehicles," said
Thomas Hausch, Vice President - International Sales, Chrysler LLC. "The new Jeep
J8 marks the brand's return to vehicle production for military and civilian
government use - the same capability that makes the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler
Unlimited famous also makes the Jeep J8 a truly multipurpose vehicle."
With the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, Jeep
engineers increased its capability and versatility. The frame of the Wrangler
Unlimited is reinforced for increased ruggedness and to allow greater payloads -
up to a maximum of 1,339 kg. Axles, brakes and suspension components are
engineered specifically for more demanding military and civilian government use,
including utilising a leaf-spring suspension system in the rear. The J8's
Command-Trac four-wheel-drive system allows maximum versatility and performance
in both on- and off-road conditions.
The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that
produces 118 kW and 400 Nm of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500
kg. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also
features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted
snorkel that enables the J8 to ford water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and operate
in sandstorm conditions for up to five hours.
The Jeep J8 is available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for
personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle. It may be
produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either
right-hand- or left-hand-drive.
While not designed for front-line combat operations, the Jeep J8 is fully
armour capable and excels in a variety of duties ranging from command vehicle to
troop/cargo carrier, ambulance, communications vehicle and other duties - also
making it suitable for civilian government applications. Tow eyes and heavy-duty
bumpers allow the Jeep J8 to be easily transported by airplane or helicopter.
The Jeep J8 will be produced in a Chrysler LLC joint-venture facility in
Cairo, Egypt, and will be available beginning in spring 2008.
Jeep in the military
In June 1941, the U.S. Army received its first shipments of the Willys MA,
the rugged 4x4 vehicle that came to be called the Jeep. This predecessor to
today's Jeep Wrangler would prove so vital to the Allies’ World War II effort
that Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower declared that the war could not have been won
without the Jeep vehicle.
Jeep vehicles have been produced for various militaries around the world. The
Jeep J8 marks the start of Jeep’s renewed commitment to supply the defence
community with the highest-quality 4x4 vehicles available anywhere in the world.
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