As the United States moved towards war in 1939, there came a call from the government for a high volume vehicle that would be pressed into service for the armed forces in World War II. Certain specifications needed to be met in order to be granted the authority to produce these vehicles. Those specifications included a payload capacity of 600 pounds, a wheelbase of less than 75 inches, and a gross vehicle weight of less than 1,200 pounds. Additionally, a fold-down windshield and four-wheel-drive were required. Three companies managed to lead this effort and they were Bantam, Willy-Overland, and Ford. Making a longer story just a bit shorter, Willys was ultimately awarded the original contract. Shortly after production, Willys granted license to the government to press other manufacturers into service utilizing the Willys design (namely Ford) in order to meet the demand during the war. The Jeep came to be in 1940. While few would dare contend that these utility vehicles would initially create a demand for Jeep parts and Jeep accessories, today’s Jeeps have matured far beyond the original concept. While all models still have that rugged, go-anywhere and do-anything pedigree, they have undoubtedly grown to incorporate luxury, style, and even grace into today’s versions. Automotive Concepts offers you the highest quality Jeep parts and Jeep accessories put your personal signature on your Jeep, regardless of the model you own. Read More about JEEP accessories…