Natural rubber was the preferred material for tire manufacturer prior to World War II. It was cheaper and readily available. While some of the naturally occurring rubber came from Africa, Central and South America - the bulk of it came from Southeast Asia (especially the Netherlands East Indies). This of course caused a problem as Japan controlled much of Southeast Asia in their expansion efforts.
Jeep vehicles and other military vehicles would be stopped in their tracks without a substitute for natural rubber in their tires. Planes, trucks and Jeep 4x4s all depended upon rubber to keep the War machine moving.
Synthetic rubber wasn't new technology, it was typically a mixture of oil, natural gas, coal, acetylene, and other items. But it was expensive.
B.F. Goodrich Company, with the help of scientist Waldo Semon, developed an cost-effective synthetic rubber call Ameripol in 1940.
The first synthetic tire was unveiled to the U.S. public by B.F. Goodrich on June 4, 1940, eighteen months before Pearl Harbor. More than half of the tire was synthetic, but was 1/3 more expensive.
The U.S. Government launched a major campaign (some of which was top secret) to help improve synthetic rubber production lower costs. The nations technical powerhouses came together during the war to produce a general purpose synthetic rubber known as GR-S (Government Rubber-Styrene), on a massive scale.
With the fear of losing the war at their hands, America's scientists, university research laboratories, and the petrochemical industry industry collaborated to produce almost a million tons of high-quality synthetic rubber in 18 months. Many called it an industrial and scientific miracle. Annual production increased from an annual output of 231 tons of general purpose rubber in 1941 to over 70,000 tons a month in 1945!
Tennessee Eastman began manufacturing hydroquinone (a photographic developer) for the war effort when it was found it helped keep synthetic rubber from becoming gummy.
Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company and Firestone Tire and Rubber Company were instrumental in furthering the development of synthetic rubber products during World War II. According to the book World War II 1935-1945, the War Production Board ordered the construction of 50 synthetic rubber factories.
According to the book, The Magic City - Unemployment in a working-class community, "The government spent millions of dollars to build factories to produce synthetic rubber, which was then sold cheaply to companies making essential war material. After the war ended, Harvey Firestone, who was eager to preserve "free enterprise," spoke out strongly and successfully against government operation of these plants (Lief 1951:354).
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Jeep MA with Santa and Troops
Great Jeep historical Christmas Image from the archives. Santa Claus delivering a tree to the troops in a Willys MA "Jeep Sleigh". The honor guard and image were taken at Camp Lee, Virginia - part of the Quartermaster Replacement Center.
Image courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration Archives.
Image courtesy of the National Archives and Records Administration Archives.
Gang Sign in WWII Philco Brag Ad
Advertising during World War II could often be very strong. Ad agencies had to tread a thin line between promoting patriotism and the war effort and bald-faced braggadioco look-what-we-did promotion.
This boastful in-your-face brag ad was produced by J. Walter Thompson for the Philco Corporation. W.H. Crawford, the illustrator, used a reverse V sign as a severe insult to the enemy.
According to - the gesture was one step away from flipping the bird. The European community was familiar with the sign as it meant, "F#@? You", or "Up Yours."
According to historian Juliet Barker in her Book, Agincourt: Henry V and the Battle That Made England (2006), King Henry V included references to the french cutting off longbowman's fingers. The two-fingered salute, or "longbowman salute" was a jab at the French to show the English were still going strong.
I especially like Philco's pledge to soldiers of industry in the second paragraph, "More-Better-Sooner." Nice slogan.
Today the symbol is used my many on the web as a friendly or nice gang sign. For those who want to be cool, but not want to flash the wrong sign.
For more on the V sign and it's many meanings - visit Wiki.
Image approved for research purposes only. Part of the Duke Library Digital Collection - J. Walter Thompson Advertising Collection.
This boastful in-your-face brag ad was produced by J. Walter Thompson for the Philco Corporation. W.H. Crawford, the illustrator, used a reverse V sign as a severe insult to the enemy.
According to - the gesture was one step away from flipping the bird. The European community was familiar with the sign as it meant, "F#@? You", or "Up Yours."
According to historian Juliet Barker in her Book, Agincourt: Henry V and the Battle That Made England (2006), King Henry V included references to the french cutting off longbowman's fingers. The two-fingered salute, or "longbowman salute" was a jab at the French to show the English were still going strong.
I especially like Philco's pledge to soldiers of industry in the second paragraph, "More-Better-Sooner." Nice slogan.
Today the symbol is used my many on the web as a friendly or nice gang sign. For those who want to be cool, but not want to flash the wrong sign.
For more on the V sign and it's many meanings - visit Wiki.
Image approved for research purposes only. Part of the Duke Library Digital Collection - J. Walter Thompson Advertising Collection.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Pentastar V6 - One of Ward's 10 Best Engines for 2012
Ward's Automotive just named the Jeep Pentastar V6 engine in its "10 Best Engines" for 2012. Second year in a row. Pretty impressive. Only one of four repeat winners.
This engine was a big part of Wrangler & Wrangler Unlimited's success this past year: 40% more horsepower, 10% more torque, and 26% faster times from 0-60 mph.
Pretty impressive. I especially like the fact that the oil change interval was changed to 8,000 miles instead of the typical 6K. That and the clever top-mounted "canister free" oil filter - no more messy oil changes.
The engine was purpose built for off-roading. The upper and lower oil pans were engineered to supply oil even when driving at steep angles. Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited also received a higher-mounted alternator to allow for a full 30-inches of water fording capability.
Image was tweaked at pixlr.com/o-matic/
Learn more about Ward's 10 Best Engines here.
This engine was a big part of Wrangler & Wrangler Unlimited's success this past year: 40% more horsepower, 10% more torque, and 26% faster times from 0-60 mph.
Pretty impressive. I especially like the fact that the oil change interval was changed to 8,000 miles instead of the typical 6K. That and the clever top-mounted "canister free" oil filter - no more messy oil changes.
The engine was purpose built for off-roading. The upper and lower oil pans were engineered to supply oil even when driving at steep angles. Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited also received a higher-mounted alternator to allow for a full 30-inches of water fording capability.
Image was tweaked at pixlr.com/o-matic/
Learn more about Ward's 10 Best Engines here.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit
You can count on the Jeep brand to deliver all-weather warriors. Ready for anything Mother Nature can throw your way.
The Washington Post seems to agree. Columnist Warren Brown called the Grand Cherokee "a long-distance runner if ever there was one." He went on to add, "We want ... the sense that we can handle anything likely to confront us on a long road trip. The Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers that sense of well-being, even with its standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine (260 foot-pounds of torque, 290 horsepower)."
Brown summarized, "It's a good feeling, not having to worry about slipping or sliding into misery..."
Agree wholeheartedly.
The Washington Post seems to agree. Columnist Warren Brown called the Grand Cherokee "a long-distance runner if ever there was one." He went on to add, "We want ... the sense that we can handle anything likely to confront us on a long road trip. The Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers that sense of well-being, even with its standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine (260 foot-pounds of torque, 290 horsepower)."
Brown summarized, "It's a good feeling, not having to worry about slipping or sliding into misery..."
Agree wholeheartedly.
Monday, December 12, 2011
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
Dan Neil of the Wall Street Journal describes the new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 as "one angry whale."
I love this article on so many fronts. Neil states the SRT8, "corners like an 80-foot sperm whale." And goes on to add that "This is the vehicle version of Ray Kurzweil's singularity theory."
Had to look that one up.
His ode to Melville's classic Moby Dick is entertaining to say the least. Check out the full article and corresponding video here:
Exerpt from the article:
"With a 6.4-liter, 470-horsepower Hemi V8 in the powder magazine and a series of very smart clutches and differentials delivering torque to all four half-shafts, the SRT8 hurls its 5,200-pound bulk to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and barrels through the quarter-mile just fat of 13 seconds. By those metrics, the hyper-Cherokee is the murdering, harpoon-straightening, bang-for-buck champion in performance SUVs, as fast as or faster than the pricier Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, Porsche Cayenne S, Range Rover Sport Supercharged, BMW X5 xDrive 35i or Audi Q7."
He goes on to say, "Now it starts to get interesting, because—as the SRT8 proves—we're getting to the point where vehicle type doesn't really matter. If the computer programming is supple enough and the on-board processing is fast enough, engineers can now virtually nullify effects caused by vehicle height, weight, roll centers and center of mass. Throw enough code at it and you can get a Ferrari to drive great in the snow, an Audi A8 with Quattro to drift like a tail-happy Toyota Supra, and you can get an 80-foot sperm whale—I mean, a Jeep Grand Cherokee—to corner like a sport sedan. This is the vehicle version of Ray Kurzweil's singularity theory."
Wow - this is great stuff. About the Kurzweil thing, as I understand it ... The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 represents a paradigm shift in vehicle capability through an exponential growth in technology and computing power. But whose responsible for "throwing the code" at the SRT8? None other than a creative and technologically savvy Jeep engineer named Jeff Roselli. He created a game-changing machine that is taking the performance world by storm.
Perhaps Roselli's title should change from Lead Vehicle Engineer and Development Manager for SRT8 to "Captain Roselli."
Now go to your local Jeep dealer and pick up one for yourself. But please, please leave your harpoons at home.
I love this article on so many fronts. Neil states the SRT8, "corners like an 80-foot sperm whale." And goes on to add that "This is the vehicle version of Ray Kurzweil's singularity theory."
Had to look that one up.
His ode to Melville's classic Moby Dick is entertaining to say the least. Check out the full article and corresponding video here:
Exerpt from the article:
"With a 6.4-liter, 470-horsepower Hemi V8 in the powder magazine and a series of very smart clutches and differentials delivering torque to all four half-shafts, the SRT8 hurls its 5,200-pound bulk to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and barrels through the quarter-mile just fat of 13 seconds. By those metrics, the hyper-Cherokee is the murdering, harpoon-straightening, bang-for-buck champion in performance SUVs, as fast as or faster than the pricier Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG, Porsche Cayenne S, Range Rover Sport Supercharged, BMW X5 xDrive 35i or Audi Q7."
He goes on to say, "Now it starts to get interesting, because—as the SRT8 proves—we're getting to the point where vehicle type doesn't really matter. If the computer programming is supple enough and the on-board processing is fast enough, engineers can now virtually nullify effects caused by vehicle height, weight, roll centers and center of mass. Throw enough code at it and you can get a Ferrari to drive great in the snow, an Audi A8 with Quattro to drift like a tail-happy Toyota Supra, and you can get an 80-foot sperm whale—I mean, a Jeep Grand Cherokee—to corner like a sport sedan. This is the vehicle version of Ray Kurzweil's singularity theory."
Wow - this is great stuff. About the Kurzweil thing, as I understand it ... The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 represents a paradigm shift in vehicle capability through an exponential growth in technology and computing power. But whose responsible for "throwing the code" at the SRT8? None other than a creative and technologically savvy Jeep engineer named Jeff Roselli. He created a game-changing machine that is taking the performance world by storm.
Perhaps Roselli's title should change from Lead Vehicle Engineer and Development Manager for SRT8 to "Captain Roselli."
Now go to your local Jeep dealer and pick up one for yourself. But please, please leave your harpoons at home.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Properly secure all cargo.
A very versatile Jeep CJ-5. That's a full-size trophy Elk in the back. Thanks to Jeff Lampe of the Journal Star for posting.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Mass with Altar on Jeep 4x4
Mass held on the battlefield by a Catholic priest for American soldiers from the 80th "Blue Ridge" Division. Oftentimes a flat Jeep hood served as a chaplain's altar.
Image courtesy of Photos Normandie - Patrick Peccatte & Michel Le Querrac - scanned images from the U.S. National Archives. Part of the Creative Commons.
Image courtesy of Photos Normandie - Patrick Peccatte & Michel Le Querrac - scanned images from the U.S. National Archives. Part of the Creative Commons.
General Eisenhower in a Jeep 4x4
Dwight Eisenhower smiling in his Willys MB Jeep 4x4.General Bradley is in the back seat chuckling about something.
Image courtesy of PhotosNormandie and National Archives and Administration Records (NARA).
Photo taken on July 4, 1944 in an apple orchard located in Haunville, France.
Image courtesy of PhotosNormandie and National Archives and Administration Records (NARA).
Photo taken on July 4, 1944 in an apple orchard located in Haunville, France.
Jeep Hit by Tornado
Wouldn't have wanted to be storm chasing in this Jeep 4x4. This unfortunate Jeep vehicle was caught up in a powerful tornado and smashed so it's hardly recognizable as a car.
Eighty people died from this tornado. You can find out more about this deadly twister here: www.crh.noaa.gov/ict/udall/udall.php
Interesting comparison to a new Jeep Wrangler (JK) that was picked up and tossed 100 feet by a tornado: www.jkowners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=59514
I cleaned up the background a bit - it was showing some sort of water damage.
This Creative Commons image is part of Department of Agriculture - Weather Bureau Collection. Found in the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration. NARA Identifier: 283888
research.archives.gov/description/283888
Eighty people died from this tornado. You can find out more about this deadly twister here: www.crh.noaa.gov/ict/udall/udall.php
Interesting comparison to a new Jeep Wrangler (JK) that was picked up and tossed 100 feet by a tornado: www.jkowners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=59514
I cleaned up the background a bit - it was showing some sort of water damage.
This Creative Commons image is part of Department of Agriculture - Weather Bureau Collection. Found in the U.S. National Archives and Records Administration. NARA Identifier: 283888
research.archives.gov/description/283888
Jeep - Atomic bomb testing
Recently declassified documents of film crews and their images provided this gem. A Jeep 4x4 equipped with movie camera is part of the filmmakers' team that captured an atomic explosion at a test site in the Nevada desert in 1957.
You can see the shock wave lifting up the dust from the desert as it passes the film crew.
Have to imagine that a bunch of these guys were hit in later years by cancer. It's speculated that John Wayne died of cancer from fallout in the Nevada desert from these same nuclear tests.
Some conspiracy folks will say this is a staged event shot in Hollywood - looks pretty real to me.
You can see the shock wave lifting up the dust from the desert as it passes the film crew.
Have to imagine that a bunch of these guys were hit in later years by cancer. It's speculated that John Wayne died of cancer from fallout in the Nevada desert from these same nuclear tests.
Some conspiracy folks will say this is a staged event shot in Hollywood - looks pretty real to me.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Korean Hero by his M38 Jeep
Captain J.W. Finley supports himself between two M38 Jeep vehicles after suffering severe neck and facial shrapnel wounds from an exploding Chinese grenade.
Captain Finley of Hazelhurst, Ga., was assigned to Company F, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. He resolutely refused to leave his duty until he finished directing first aid treatment and evacuation of wounded men of his company. A hero to be sure - Captain Finley retired a Colonel in the U.S. Army and served three tours in Korea, a tour in Vietnam, as well as duty in Japan, Turkey and Germany.
Image taken on February 22, 1951.
Image courtesy of the U.S. Army Korea Media Center at: imcom.korea.army.mil
This image is part of the Creative Commons and is cleared for public release. This image is generally considered in the public domain. Not for commercial use.
SC359740 - KOREAN CONFLICT
Captain Finley of Hazelhurst, Ga., was assigned to Company F, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. He resolutely refused to leave his duty until he finished directing first aid treatment and evacuation of wounded men of his company. A hero to be sure - Captain Finley retired a Colonel in the U.S. Army and served three tours in Korea, a tour in Vietnam, as well as duty in Japan, Turkey and Germany.
Image taken on February 22, 1951.
Image courtesy of the U.S. Army Korea Media Center at: imcom.korea.army.mil
This image is part of the Creative Commons and is cleared for public release. This image is generally considered in the public domain. Not for commercial use.
SC359740 - KOREAN CONFLICT
Jeep M38 used as Altar in Mass
Jeep M38 being used by Chaplain Dennis Murphy as an altar for the elements during mass celebration in Japan during the Korean conflict. The flat Jeep bonnet served as the perfect platform for the sacred elements (today's HMMWV, aka Humvee, is too high and sloping to use the hood). The soldiers were from the 65th AAA Batallion and were worshiping at Bolo Point, Okinawa. Photo taken July 19, 1951.
Photo courtesy Nelse Einwaechter of the U.S. Army.
Photo courtesy Nelse Einwaechter of the U.S. Army.
Generals in a Jeep
General Douglas MacArthur was as big as any rock star in his olive drab five-star uniform. He felt he was destined by God to hold his military position.
General MacArthur led the United Nations Command in the Korean War from 1950 to 1951. Eight days after this image was taken, MacArthur was removed from this command by President Harry S. Truman. MacArthur had voiced to the press his critical opinion of President Truman's limited-war strategy.
MacArthur served in the military for 52 years.
From left to right in the M38: Lt. Gen. Matthew Ridgeway; Maj. Gen. Doyle Hickey; and Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Commander in Chief of U.N. Forces in Korea. The specially modified Jeep 4x4 has a bar allowing General MacArthur to stand as he inspected the troops at the command post in Yang Yang, Korea.
The post was roughly 15 miles north of the 38th parallel, April 3, 1951.
Courtesy of Grigg, U.S. Army. National Archives and Records Administration.
NARA FILE #: 111-SC-365348.
WAR & CONFLICT BOOK #: 1376
Creative Commons image: cleared for public release. This image is generally considered in the public domain. Not for commercial use.
Courtesy of U.S. Army Korea - Installation Management Command.
General MacArthur led the United Nations Command in the Korean War from 1950 to 1951. Eight days after this image was taken, MacArthur was removed from this command by President Harry S. Truman. MacArthur had voiced to the press his critical opinion of President Truman's limited-war strategy.
MacArthur served in the military for 52 years.
From left to right in the M38: Lt. Gen. Matthew Ridgeway; Maj. Gen. Doyle Hickey; and Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Commander in Chief of U.N. Forces in Korea. The specially modified Jeep 4x4 has a bar allowing General MacArthur to stand as he inspected the troops at the command post in Yang Yang, Korea.
The post was roughly 15 miles north of the 38th parallel, April 3, 1951.
Courtesy of Grigg, U.S. Army. National Archives and Records Administration.
NARA FILE #: 111-SC-365348.
WAR & CONFLICT BOOK #: 1376
Creative Commons image: cleared for public release. This image is generally considered in the public domain. Not for commercial use.
Courtesy of U.S. Army Korea - Installation Management Command.
QR Codes on Parade Flags?
Kind of looks like QR Codes on their Parade Flags. Might make for a clever marketing opportunity.
Friday, November 25, 2011
Jeep Transporting Wounded Soldier
Bullet holes in the windshield of this Jeep are a testament to the faithful service of the Medics of the 84th Division as they evacuate wounded soldiers in their makeshift Jeep ambulance.
The Medics are carrying two soldiers wrapped up in blankets to keep them warm in the frigid cold. The litters are strapped to a makeshift frame attached to the flat-hooded Jeep 4x4.
This Jeep caravan was part of the 1st Battalion, 334th Infantry Regiment. Image was taken on January 9th, 1945.
Thanks to Kathleen for posting this Creative Commons image from the Otis Historical Archives in the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
The Medics are carrying two soldiers wrapped up in blankets to keep them warm in the frigid cold. The litters are strapped to a makeshift frame attached to the flat-hooded Jeep 4x4.
This Jeep caravan was part of the 1st Battalion, 334th Infantry Regiment. Image was taken on January 9th, 1945.
Thanks to Kathleen for posting this Creative Commons image from the Otis Historical Archives in the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
Medics in Jeep Ambulance
I'm thankful for the many soldiers that put themselves in harms way for the sakes of others. For those who risk their lives for our freedom.
The versatile Jeep with its flat hood and 4WD traction served as a perfect makeshift ambulance for Medics bringing injured soldiers back from the front lines.
Medics of the 84th Division bring casualties back on their Jeep, near Samres, Belgium. They were part of the 1st Battalion 334th Infantry Regiment. Image was taken January 13, 1945.
Thanks to Kathleen for posting this Creative Commons image from the Otis Historical Archives in the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
The versatile Jeep with its flat hood and 4WD traction served as a perfect makeshift ambulance for Medics bringing injured soldiers back from the front lines.
Medics of the 84th Division bring casualties back on their Jeep, near Samres, Belgium. They were part of the 1st Battalion 334th Infantry Regiment. Image was taken January 13, 1945.
Thanks to Kathleen for posting this Creative Commons image from the Otis Historical Archives in the National Museum of Health and Medicine.
Jeep CJ-3A Brush Fire PR image
You can see the power cord for the chain saw coming over the shoulder of the guy in the white fire coat. This image was from a public relations photo op to highlight the benefits of the CJ-3A for forestry and brush fire purposes. The shot was taken in 1949 and was included in a press release from Willys-Overland Motors.
The caption read: With the forest fires now completely under control, the forester with walkie-talkie on right reports on mopping up operations while a Jeep-powered chain saw is used to cut a burning log. The Jeep will drag unburned logs across a fire lane as water crews extinguish the lat spark in the burned-out area.
The caption read: With the forest fires now completely under control, the forester with walkie-talkie on right reports on mopping up operations while a Jeep-powered chain saw is used to cut a burning log. The Jeep will drag unburned logs across a fire lane as water crews extinguish the lat spark in the burned-out area.
Brush Fire Jeep CJ-3A in Action
Great shot - love the 4 Wheel Drive callout on the back of the CJ-3A. The Jeep CJ-3A, with it versatile power take off (pto), was promoted for service in a variety of arenas. This press release was highlighting the benefits of a Jeep 4x4 in forestry to help with fire suppression. The pto was used to power up a chain saw and help drag felled trees away from the burn zone. This image was taken in 1949 and distributed by the Willys-Overland Motors company of Toledo, Ohio.
The caption read: Danger of crown fires, dread of forest fire-fighters, is averted as burning snags are felled in the fire area. With speed the vital factor in keeping the fire small and damage slight, a chain saw, operated by the power of the Jeep engine, is used in cutting down the trees.
The caption read: Danger of crown fires, dread of forest fire-fighters, is averted as burning snags are felled in the fire area. With speed the vital factor in keeping the fire small and damage slight, a chain saw, operated by the power of the Jeep engine, is used in cutting down the trees.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Custom Jeep CJ-5 Removable Hardtop
You too can have your very own removable hardtop for only three easy payments of $19.95. But that's not all ... it has side vents too!
Thanks to Brian Teutsch for posting his image in the Creative Commons.
Thanks to Brian Teutsch for posting his image in the Creative Commons.
2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Arctic
Nice shot of the new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Arctic. The new 3.6L V6 engine is really pushing sales through the roof. According to the Toledo Blade, the Toledo Assembly Complex is buzzing 20 hours a day, six days a week. Even at that pace, they can't keep up with orders! The iconic Wrangler has set sales records for the last five months, and new dealer orders are far surpassing all other months for the first 10 days of November.
Wrangler Unlimited has cleaned up nice with the body matching hardtop and fender flares. The more powerful and fuel efficient engine is the icing on the cake.
Wrangler Unlimited has cleaned up nice with the body matching hardtop and fender flares. The more powerful and fuel efficient engine is the icing on the cake.
Jeep Truck Testing
Thought for the day: Before you even consider building a Jeep Pickup make sure you're going to have enough serious customers to make it work.
The Jeep brand had a long history of building pickup trucks. Kind of causes problems when RAM is under the same Chrysler umbrella. Last year there was a glimmer of hope for a Wrangler based pickup truck. Since then, Mopar has released a clever JK-8 pickup conversion kit. The $5,499 JK-8 kit allows owners to do the work themselves with just a sawzall and angle-grinder.
Sales as of September were about 300. Was this a litmus test to see how serious the Jeep community was about a Jeep Pickup? Not sure, but as of September 19, the Jeep Pickup hopes are on hold for a while.
Last word from Jeep CEO Mike Manley on September 19th was that Jeep Truck idea is still a high priority, but that it won't see production until 2015-2016 (if at all). Of course, that may change with Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionni's push increase Jeep vehicle sales internationally. Mid November came news that the Toledo Assembly Complex would receive a 500 million dollar investment with production to begin in 2013.
Copy:
Make sure you're serious.
Before you even consider buying a Jeep Pickup make sure you're looking for a serious truck. Because this one's more than a bed attached to a cab. It's a truck designed and built to outperform the field at the things you need a truck for. That's why we call it The Performance Truck.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK WORKS.
It can hold more cargo and haul a heavier payload than comparable 4-wheel drive Ford, Chevy or Dodge pickup trucks. And still gets about the same gas mileage as all of 'em. 16 EPA EST MPG, 21 HWY EST.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK GOES.
With 2-wheel drive when you want it and Jeep's legendary 4-wheel drive when you need it. 4-wheel drive that's built in from the ground up, not added on like its competition's.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK ENDURES.
95.8 percent of all Jeep vehicles registered in the last 10 years are still in operation today. Another tough performance that Ford, Chevy and Dodge can't match.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK WINS.
Jeep Pickups took 1st place in the SCORE Off-Road World Championship, the Mint 400, Baja 1000, Parker 400 and Baja Internacional. Once again outperforming, well, you know who.
All this and a price designed to take on the competition. So why settle for less? Name the terrain. Jeep truck performs.
The Jeep brand had a long history of building pickup trucks. Kind of causes problems when RAM is under the same Chrysler umbrella. Last year there was a glimmer of hope for a Wrangler based pickup truck. Since then, Mopar has released a clever JK-8 pickup conversion kit. The $5,499 JK-8 kit allows owners to do the work themselves with just a sawzall and angle-grinder.
Sales as of September were about 300. Was this a litmus test to see how serious the Jeep community was about a Jeep Pickup? Not sure, but as of September 19, the Jeep Pickup hopes are on hold for a while.
Last word from Jeep CEO Mike Manley on September 19th was that Jeep Truck idea is still a high priority, but that it won't see production until 2015-2016 (if at all). Of course, that may change with Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionni's push increase Jeep vehicle sales internationally. Mid November came news that the Toledo Assembly Complex would receive a 500 million dollar investment with production to begin in 2013.
Copy:
Make sure you're serious.
Before you even consider buying a Jeep Pickup make sure you're looking for a serious truck. Because this one's more than a bed attached to a cab. It's a truck designed and built to outperform the field at the things you need a truck for. That's why we call it The Performance Truck.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK WORKS.
It can hold more cargo and haul a heavier payload than comparable 4-wheel drive Ford, Chevy or Dodge pickup trucks. And still gets about the same gas mileage as all of 'em. 16 EPA EST MPG, 21 HWY EST.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK GOES.
With 2-wheel drive when you want it and Jeep's legendary 4-wheel drive when you need it. 4-wheel drive that's built in from the ground up, not added on like its competition's.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK ENDURES.
95.8 percent of all Jeep vehicles registered in the last 10 years are still in operation today. Another tough performance that Ford, Chevy and Dodge can't match.
THE PERFORMANCE TRUCK WINS.
Jeep Pickups took 1st place in the SCORE Off-Road World Championship, the Mint 400, Baja 1000, Parker 400 and Baja Internacional. Once again outperforming, well, you know who.
All this and a price designed to take on the competition. So why settle for less? Name the terrain. Jeep truck performs.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Jeep Legends Advertisement
Classic Jeep advertisement celebrating the CJ-5 Laredo. It's no wonder the Jeep brand has stayed on track for over seven decades - the capability theme has never changed. Read the copy from 1980 with it's strong style and resale value story and it could be substituted for a JK of today.
Copy:
The legendary Jeep vehicles have been protecting forests, transporting troops, delivering mail, plowing snow, winning races and weathering storms for more than a quarter of a century. Longer than a lot of vehicles have even existed.
They've given American drivers more outward mobility, rugged performance and pure fun than any single car in history. And they've held onto their value like they've held onto their legendary design, transcending passing styles season after season, year after year.
But today's Jeep CJ is more than its famous four wheels driving into the sunset. It's the option of contoured buckets, room for four, carpeting, air conditioning, stereo ... hardtop. soft top, no top at all. And something you'll appreciate every time you drive: more miles per gallon than any 4-wheeler made in America. No other vehicle can meet your demands and desires in quite the same way.
Jeep CJ wasn't born a legend. It had to earn the respect of the world's toughest drivers, and keeps on earning it every day. On wilderness trails and unplowed streets. On the job and out on the town. That's why the legend lives on.
Copy:
The legendary Jeep vehicles have been protecting forests, transporting troops, delivering mail, plowing snow, winning races and weathering storms for more than a quarter of a century. Longer than a lot of vehicles have even existed.
They've given American drivers more outward mobility, rugged performance and pure fun than any single car in history. And they've held onto their value like they've held onto their legendary design, transcending passing styles season after season, year after year.
But today's Jeep CJ is more than its famous four wheels driving into the sunset. It's the option of contoured buckets, room for four, carpeting, air conditioning, stereo ... hardtop. soft top, no top at all. And something you'll appreciate every time you drive: more miles per gallon than any 4-wheeler made in America. No other vehicle can meet your demands and desires in quite the same way.
Jeep CJ wasn't born a legend. It had to earn the respect of the world's toughest drivers, and keeps on earning it every day. On wilderness trails and unplowed streets. On the job and out on the town. That's why the legend lives on.
Jeep Brand Niche Advertising - Surfing
There's magic in the idea of surfing. The sound of the surf and the pounding waves relentlessly call you to play in an immersed-in-nature experience. The quest for the perfect break drives many the world over. Forever searching. Looking for a
remote spot where your only competition is the wave and not a crowd of first timers. It's about being on top. Mentally checked in. In tune with the wave — it's sound, movement and energy. When it's right, you feel like your dancing on the wave. Your in the flow. And you wonder how you can get that feeling anywhere other than a wave. For many off-roaders, taking their Jeep 4x4 into the backwoods of America can feel like riding the perfect wave at Waimea Bay Beach. It's kind of like tuning in to terra firma. Like being connected from the head and heart right down through the leg and foot pedals and engine and tires — right down to the earth. Nature calls off-roaders much the same way as the surfers. Boulders, rocks, ledges and logs have a way of talking to you through the bottom of your Jeep 4x4. 
The off-road skid plates are like sounding boards to the soul. It's kind of like Morse Code from Mother Nature passed on through the trail. The gentle woosh of leaves against the quarter panel. The rocks kissing your t-case skid plate. You've got a special connection to the terrain that, when explained, others just don't understand. That is until they make it out to the trail with you. Put them in the driver's seat. Then their ears come alive, and then, and only then, they understand.
The intangible tie of riders of the rip curls and riders of the rugged rock is the common bond that forms between nature's adventurer seekers. It transcends boundaries, job titles, and equipment. It's about being immersed in nature's backyard.
The Jeep brand has had a long history of sponsoring like-minded 
people who share the spirit of adventure and freedom. One of the key sports that shares the Jeep spirit is surfing. Ben Skinner is showing the Shaka sign, a gesture of Hawaii that says "aloha", that everything is all right, good vibes and mutual respect. Check out a recent interview with Ben by jeep-people after an Association of Surfing Professionals World Longboard Tour Bear Pro event.
While not everyone has access to the waves or has a longboard made by Ben Skinner, you can go to your local Jeep dealer and have instant access to fun and freedom only associated with a Jeep 4x4.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Jeep CJ-7 All-Weather Advertisement
Great all-weather advertisement for the 1980 Jeep CJ-7 Renegade. Just as true today as it was then. I love the "it has weathered passing styles..." line. Trends tend to lead to forgotten brands. Fads fade over time. You can be confident that the Jeep brand's iconic, purpose-built style will adventure on. A timeless classic.
Copy:
A legend must weather many storms.
Let it snow. Let it drift. Let it sleet. Let the streets go unplowed and let the faint of spirit stay locked behind garage doors till spring thaw.
The storms of winter matter little to the legendary Jeep CJ. It has been plowing snow, getting kids to school, taking skiers to the slopes and weathering storms for more than a quarter of a century. Dress it for work with plow and winch or dress it for play with ski rack and Tracker radials - history's most famous 4-wheeler will get you through in heart warming comfort.
There's room for four. The options of a weather-tight hardtop, high-back soft buckets, carpeting and stereo sound. And something you'll appreciate every time you drive: the highest gas mileage of any 4-wheeler made in America.
The most important thing Jeep CJ can give any driver, though, is a feeling of confidence. Not just because it's been weathering storms longer than a lot of vehicles have even existed. But because it has weathered passing styles for just as long. That's the confidence of owning a legend.
Jeep Wagoneer No Competitor Ad
I was surprised to see the 32 HWY MPG advertised for a 4x4 Jeep vehicle. That is until I read the disclaimer.
"We Couldn't find a competitor"
If you've been looking for a luxury car that will give your family the convenience of four doors, room for five, the elegance of leather bucket seats and flush carpeting, and at the same time let you shift from 2-wheel to 40wheel drive on the fly, there is only one. The all-new trim size Jeep Wagoneer Sportwagon. We know, because it's our business to compare. There is simply no competitor.
And when it comes to 4-wheel driving, there's no competitor. After all, Jeep wrote the book on 4-wheel drive. Start with legendary Jeep traction. Then consider that the new Wagoneer Sportwagon has the highest ground clearance and the highest horsepower per pound of any 4-wheeler in its class, and gives you outstanding mileage. 24 EPA EST MPG / 32 EST HWY.
So, if you're interested in all-out luxury in 4-wheel drive, there's only one stop to make. At your Jeep dealer. Buy or lease a new Jeep Sportwagon - the luxurious Wagoneer or the triple award winning Cherokee "4x4 of the Year."
Use these figures for comparison. Your results may differ due to driving speed, weather conditions and trip length. Actual highway mileage will probably be less.
The all-new Jeep Wagoneer. America's luxury 4-wheel drive Sportwagon.
Classic Jeep Quality Advertisement
The Jeep brand won the Total Quality Award for Best Ownership Experience in 1996. It's come full circle in 2011. According to Consumer Report's the Jeep brand has the highest quality of all domestic auto manufacturers.
They also are the most improved automaker for the past year. In my opinion, the best ownership experience translates directly to high resale value. The Jeep brand has the highest resale value for all domestic brands.
Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited were recently honored by Kelley Blue Book as having the best resale value for any SUV over a 5 year period.
To top it off, the Wrangler just won the 2012 ALG Residual Value Award for the Compact Utility Vehicle.
It all goes back to people wanting to own an original. A true American icon that doesn't go out of style. Built with pride and made to last.
Jeep Cherokee Resale Value Ad
Vintage Jeep Cherokee (SJ) advertisement with seven key reasons to change the shape of your wagon.
The seventh reason: Resale Value is true today, just as it was with the purchase of this classic full-size Cherokee (SJ).
Kelley Blue Book just announced the 2012 awards and the Jeep Wrangler / Wrangler Unlimited came out on top. It is projected to retain 68 percent of its value after 36 months and 55 percent after five years.
This is particularly important as most new vehicle owners are averaging just over 5 years of ownership before trading in or selling on the open market.
So if you're looking for a styling vehicle that will hold it's value over the long haul - look no further than your friendly neighborhood Jeep dealer.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Luv Your Jeep!
I luv, luv, luv this idea. Cynthia Closkey made this clever Chalk Jeep to greet Jeep owners on their way to the World's Longest Jeep Parade event in downtown Butler, PA. Awesome!
Jeep altar at WWII mass service
The Willys MB Jeep 4x4 was often used by chaplains in World War II as an altar. This image from the U.S. Navy Seabee Museum shows Seabees of the 111th Naval Construction Batallion giving thanks after the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France. Navy Chaplains have served around the world with Seabee battalions since their inception in 1942. Chaplains prayed and conducted regular services, using any available area including a ships deck, an apple orchard, a hand-cut hole in a Pacific-island jungle or a makeshift tent for a church. They will use a Jeep 4x4, packing case or ammunition box for an altar, or a helmet for a yarmulke, the top of a mess kit for a paten or a canteen cup for a chalice.
Date: June 1944
Creator/Photographer: 111th Naval Construction Battalion
Collection: 111th Naval Construction Battalion
Rights Info: No known restrictions on image.
Repository: U.S. Navy Seabee Museum, Collections Department, Port Hueneme, CA, Naval History and Heritage Command, www.history.navy.mil/seabeemuseum
New Jeep Engine Saves Money
The new 2012 Wrangler is making waves in the media thanks in part to the outstanding 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine. Sure it has 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque - that 83 hp increase translates into a 26% improvement in 0-60mph acceleration. But what about fuel economy? That's improved 10% as well. What does it mean to the pocketbook? 
Compare the 2011 Wrangler with its 3.8L V6 and plug in the new 2012 3.6L V6 to fueleconomy.gov and you'll find there is a substantial savings over the long haul. Look at the 5-year savings - $1,319 . . . that's not chump change. About enough to buy a nice Warn winch for your ride.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Dogs and Bravery
Great photo of a dog training beside the U.S. Army's finest. Dog's were used in fighting since ancient times and they continue to serve by the sides of brave soldiers today in the fight against terrorism. Of recent note: Navy SEALs even brought a highly trained dog with them on the raid of Osama Bin Laden's compound.
Special bonds are created between a dog and his handler. Time and time again you'll find dogs displaying acts of courage, heroism, and valor. Many of these dogs go on as unsung heroes. Only to be lauded in the hearts of their handlers. A few are commended in the light of others and receive the honor due them.The U.S. Census Bureau has an audible story that highlights a distinguished service medal awarded to "Chips" in 1943 for bravery.
According to the citation, Chips was awarded the medal for his "courageous action in single-handedly eliminating a dangerous machine gun nest and causing surrender of the crew." Four months later, the medal was rescinded when the War Department issued regulations prohibiting the award of such decorations to animals.Sarbi, a black labrador retriever, worked in the Australian military as a sniffer dog and received the Purple Cross bravery award for service in Afghanistan.
Buster, a six-year old Springer Spaniel British war dog was lauded for breaking a resistance cell in Iraq and was awarded Britian's highest animal bravery medal.
A very moving War Dogs site and "K-9 Wall of Honor" can be found at uswardogs.org. The dogs of war are special breed indeed.
Photo information (Primary): A U.S. Army soldier with the 10th Special Forces Group and his military working dog jump off the ramp of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment during water training over the Gulf of Mexico as part of exercise Emerald Warrior 2011 on March 1, 2011. Emerald Warrior is an annual two-week joint/combined tactical exercise sponsored by U.S. Special Operations Command designed to leverage lessons learned from operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom to provide trained and ready forces to combatant commanders. DoD photo by Tech. Sgt. Manuel J. Martinez, U.S. Air Force. (Released) Foreign Policy had a great story that led off with this image.
Photo information (War Dog Cemetery): Santa Rita, Guam (Oct. 27, 2006) - Petty Officer 2nd Class Blake Soller, a Military Working Dog (MWD) handler pets the head of his MWD Rico, at the War Dog Cemetery located on Naval Base Guam. Soller is currently assigned to Naval Security Force Detachment Guam to the MWD kennel. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class John F. Looney (RELEASED)
Photo information (Wounded Doberman in Jeep 4x4): War dog corporal Kurt receives comfort and first aid on a Jeep 4x4 after being wounded together with his Marine handler. U.S. National Archives.
White House Infographic Jeep Obama
Cool infographic from the White House. This is an isolated portion that uses the Jeep plant in Toledo as a Case Study to show how the automotive industry has rebounded since 2009.
The infographic shows the many different suppliers that contribute to the iconic Jeep Wrangler produced in Toledo, Ohio.
Through the first 10 months of 2011, Jeep is the fastest-growing domestic brand, with sales up 44 percent. At its current rate, Jeep will sell 413,000 units this year, the most since Chrysler's 2009 bankruptcy. But that's still well shy of 1999, when Jeep set its sales record of 554,466.
The original Willys MB "Jeep" 4x4 for World War II was produced in the now demolished Toledo South Assembly Plant. The Toledo Assembly Complex is a World Class facility that is raising Wrangler quality to new heights.
NOTE: The White House needs a proofreader - should be "Continental Structural Plastics" instead of "Conteintal Structural Plastics" for the Hardtop supplier.
You can find the full infographic in the post prior to this one.
The infographic shows the many different suppliers that contribute to the iconic Jeep Wrangler produced in Toledo, Ohio.
Through the first 10 months of 2011, Jeep is the fastest-growing domestic brand, with sales up 44 percent. At its current rate, Jeep will sell 413,000 units this year, the most since Chrysler's 2009 bankruptcy. But that's still well shy of 1999, when Jeep set its sales record of 554,466.
The original Willys MB "Jeep" 4x4 for World War II was produced in the now demolished Toledo South Assembly Plant. The Toledo Assembly Complex is a World Class facility that is raising Wrangler quality to new heights.
NOTE: The White House needs a proofreader - should be "Continental Structural Plastics" instead of "Conteintal Structural Plastics" for the Hardtop supplier.
You can find the full infographic in the post prior to this one.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
White-House-Infographic-Jeep-Obama
An official infographic from the White House that used a Toledo Supplier Park produced Jeep Wrangler as the central theme. Seems like President Obama is taking a ride on the meteoric rise of the Jeep brand in sales and quality. I don't blame him. The Jeep brand was, is, and will always be a true American success story. Kudos to Chrysler and the workers for making the current run the best ever.
This infographic was released when President Obama visited The Toledo Assembly Complex - where they produce Jeep Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Liberty and Dodge Nitro.
This infographic was released when President Obama visited The Toledo Assembly Complex - where they produce Jeep Wrangler, Wrangler Unlimited, Liberty and Dodge Nitro.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Jeep Brand Start/Stop Fuel Efficiency Technology
Opt for the uber-cool Turbo Diesel on the Jeep Wrangler and you get some cutting-edge technology for 2012. The new CRD engine comes equipped with Start/Stop technology - the first application of this technology on a Jeep vehicle.
With Stop/Start, the diesel engine is shut off when the vehicle is stopped, the shift gear is in Neutral, and the clutch is released. The engine then restarts automatically when the clutch pedal is depressed. Drivers can deactivate the technology via a button on the dashboard, and an icon displays in the instrument panel to indicate the Stop/Start status.
An upgraded starter and alternator improve durability, and a DC/DC power converter maintains electronic feature functionality while the vehicle is stopped.
Stop/Start technology improves fuel efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by managing the amount of time the engine runs.
Fuel economy is improved by up to 13-percent, and CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 14-percent.
Love to see this technology come to the states.
Photo courtesy of Autoviva.
With Stop/Start, the diesel engine is shut off when the vehicle is stopped, the shift gear is in Neutral, and the clutch is released. The engine then restarts automatically when the clutch pedal is depressed. Drivers can deactivate the technology via a button on the dashboard, and an icon displays in the instrument panel to indicate the Stop/Start status.
An upgraded starter and alternator improve durability, and a DC/DC power converter maintains electronic feature functionality while the vehicle is stopped.
Stop/Start technology improves fuel efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by managing the amount of time the engine runs.
Fuel economy is improved by up to 13-percent, and CO2 emissions are reduced by up to 14-percent.
Love to see this technology come to the states.
Photo courtesy of Autoviva.
Monday, October 17, 2011
What is an Ad Impression?
An ad impression is a measure of the number of times an ad is seen by a user. It is also known as an "ad view."
Social media plays a role in ad impressions, and can reap big benefits at little upfront cost. Consider how the Jeep brand reaped hundreds of thousands of impressions when Evan van der Spuy, a mountain biker on team Jeep South Africa who was hit by an antelope (red hartebeest) was interviewed by numerous networks post t-bone.
The crazy footage was launched on YouTube and was an instant hit. This kind of event is rare - it's kind of like winning the lottery.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxFIX0oPTso
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxFIX0oPTso&list=PL42A30968D1...
Social media plays a role in ad impressions, and can reap big benefits at little upfront cost. Consider how the Jeep brand reaped hundreds of thousands of impressions when Evan van der Spuy, a mountain biker on team Jeep South Africa who was hit by an antelope (red hartebeest) was interviewed by numerous networks post t-bone.
The crazy footage was launched on YouTube and was an instant hit. This kind of event is rare - it's kind of like winning the lottery.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxFIX0oPTso
www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxFIX0oPTso&list=PL42A30968D1...
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Nice article on Hemmings blog about the Jeep Wide-Trac concept vehicle of the 1960's. Still has the slotted grille - but tilted down at a severe angle. Nice bit of sleuthing with the help of Jeff Lakaszcyck as well. This unique cab-forward prototype was built by Crown for the International Vehicle Investigation program.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
CLEVER LAND ROVER PASSPORT AD
Executive Creative Director: Mark Roalfe
Typographers: Lee Aldridge, SiD
Copywriter: Phil Forster
Art Director: Tim Brookes
Photographer: Carl Warner
Production: Ali Power
Account Director: Glynn Euston
Coca Cola Friendship Machine - 2 for 1
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Boy Scout earns Eagle Rank and Hornaday Conservation Award
I'm awful proud of my son Samuel for recently earning his Eagle Scout award as well as the Hornaday Conservation award and badge. Sam was highlighted in the Clarkston News and Oxford Leader for 
his accomplishments. Over 250 man hours were invested by Sam and his volunteers to help rid the Shiawassee 
Basin Preserve of over 200 invasive Autumn Olive bushes. Many thanks to the Davisburg Rotary, Rotary sponsor Collin Walls, and Troop 192 Scoutmaster Gary Maley for all their efforts in getting Sam through this ambitious Eagle Scout Service Project.Kudos to Phil Custodio for the nice article:
September 14, 2011 - Boy Scout Sam Ekstrom took on an invasive species for his Eagle Project, removing more than 200 Autumn Olive bushes from Shiawassee Nature Preserve.
"I like the outdoors – I hate seeing wild life areas taken over by invasive species," said Ekstrom, 16, scout with Davisburg Troop 192. "It looks good – they haven't grown back."
It will take an ongoing effort to keep out the plant, which was imported to the United States from Asia in the 1800s and grows up to 40 feet high and 50 feet wide.
Collin Walls, Springfield Township supervisor and Davisburg Rotarian, suggested the project. Completed last June, the project took a lot of organizing and coordination of scouts, adults volunteers, and business donations, he said."It took my communications skills to a whole new level, talking to youths and adults too," Ekstrom said.
They made their own
herbicide applicators out of PVC pipe, and spent two days tagging then removing the plants.Sam Ekstrom, who lives in Springfield Township with his parents Lee and Heather Ekstrom, also received the Hornaday Conservation Award for distinguished service in natural resource conservation.
"We're proud of him," Heather said. "His dad is an Eagle – that helped motivate him. Boy Scouts are truly fabulous. They give him a lot of skills he'll be able to use his whole life."Sam plans to stay in scouting, working for his Eagle Palm award.
His 10 years in scouting include serving as instructor, senior patrol leader, patrol leader, chaplain aide, troop guide, den chief for Pack 133 of Andersonville Elementary School, flag coordinator, and summer camp counselor at Camp Tapico in Kalkaska.
He also earned the Baden Powell Award, the first for Troop 192, for exhibiting the highest ideals of Scouting during Summer Camp. He earned 33 Merit Badges and the WEBELOS Arrow of Light.
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