The 2004 Jeep Wrangler customized by R.L. Turner High School in Carrollton, TX, sold for $28,500 at auction. (photo credit: Collins Bros Jeep and Made Brand Studio)
Five Jeep Wranglers customized by students as part of this year’s SEMA High School Build Program have been sold for a combined $127,000. Bring a Trailer donated 100% of their buyers fees of $6,350 to bring the total earnings to $133,350.
The funds will be used by SEMA to provide another build opportunity to the same five schools and partner with five additional schools next year.
“We are thrilled by the results of the auctions and moved by how much the automotive community continues to support this program,” said Zane Clark, SEMASenior Director of Education. “Thanks to this support we are now looking to expand the program to include 10 schools next year, giving more students throughout the country an opportunity to take part in a hands-on vehicle build experience.”
Each of the five high schools received a Jeep Wrangler in early February 2019 to customize using donated aftermarket products from partnering sponsor companies. Upon completion the Jeeps were auctioned during SEMA Week of Customs by program partner Bring a Trailer Auction Site.
Results for each auction are:
Santa Fe Early College Opportunities (photo credit: Gerry Ruelas Photography)
July 15-22: 2005 Jeep Wrangler customized by the Santa Fe Early College Opportunities (ECO) in Santa Fe, NM. Sold for $26,000.
Comstock High School (photo credit: Beam Photography)
July 16-23: 2004 Jeep Wrangler customized by the Comstock High School auto shop in Kalamazoo, MI. Sold for $20,250.
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School (photo credit: SEMA)
July 17-24: 1997 Jeep Wrangler customized by Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in Santa Ynez, CA. Sold for $26,250.
C.D. Hylton High School (photo credit: Chris Cervenka Photography)
July 18-25: 2002 Jeep Wrangler customized by C.D. Hylton High School in Woodbridge, VI. Sold for $26,000.
R.L. Turner High School (photo credit: Collins Bros Jeep and Made Brand Studio)
July 19-26: 2004 Jeep Wrangler customized by R.L. Turner High School in Carrollton, TX. Sold for $28,500.
“We at Bring a Trailer were very excited to partner again with SEMA to auction these special custom Jeeps,” said Randy Nonnenberg, Bring a Trailer Co-founder & CEO. “Young enthusiasts are key to the future of the automotive hobby, and we applaud SEMA for furthering their investment in this program and these students. We are very happy to again be donating our entire 5% auction fees on these Jeeps to the same great cause.”
“We are grateful to all of the sponsors who have made this program possible,” Clark said. “To expand from a one-vehicle pilot program last year to 10 builds in our third year speaks volumes of our sponsors and their commitment to fostering the future generation of our industry.”
SEMA’s High School Vehicle Build Program, each vehicle was customized by high school students working with industry volunteers and manufacturers. Sales from the vehicles will be used to fund future student projects, thereby creating a sustainable and growing program that provides students with real-world, hands-on educational experiences.
The five builds were funded in part from money raised from a pilot program the previous year. The program which debuted in the 2017-2018 school year included one vehicle that sold for more than $56,000. The proceeds were used to successfully expand the program to include five high schools in 2018-2019.
“We didn’t know what to expect during our first year,” said Zane Clark, SEMA senior director of education. “But we’re encouraged and excited that we were able to expand and grow the program. We’re anxious and hoping that the community will see the positive results that came from the pilot program, and that they will come out and support the program again this year.”
Supporters will be able to bid on the vehicles beginning July 15 through BringaTrailer.com. One vehicle will be released each day for five consecutive days, and will be available for bidding for seven days following its launch date. Proceeds from the vehicles will be reinvested into the program.
Details for the vehicles and auctions are:
Santa Fe Early College Opportunities (photo credit: Gerry Ruelas Photography)
July 15: 2005 Jeep Wrangler customized by the Santa Fe Early College Opportunities (ECO) in Santa Fe, NM. Vehicle features a vented hood, trail doors, a 3/5” suspension kit with a 5” stretch from Rock Krawler Suspension and a full body repaint.
Comstock High School (photo credit: Beam Photography)
July 16: 2004 Jeep Wrangler customized by the Comstock High School auto shop in Kalamazoo, MI. The only Jeep in the program with a hard top, this vehicle includes a roof rack form Just Jeep ‘N Stuff, LED headlights, full carpet replacement, bumpers, tire carrier and rock sliders from JcrOffroad, 4” Skyjacker suspension kit and a fresh coat of paint.
C.D. Hylton High School (photo credit: Chris Cervenka Photography)
July 17: 2002 Jeep Wrangler customized by C.D. Hylton High School in Woodbridge, VI. Features include a frame-off restoration with a painted chassis, extensive under-hood improvements, full body repaint, new windshield from Safelite, front door weatherstrip from Steele Rubber Products, new hood from LQK/Keystone and a Rancho Suspension 3.5” short arm suspension kit.
Santa Ynez Valley Union High School (photo credit: SEMA)
July 18: 1997 Jeep Wrangler customized by Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in Santa Ynez, CA. Vehicle includes 37” Atturo Off-Road Tires with Black Rock Wheels, Rugged Ridges products, T-REX grille, Superlift Suspension 4” lift kit and LLumar window tint.
R.L. Turner High School (photo credit: Collins Bros Jeep and Made Brand Studio)
July 19: 2004 Jeep Wrangler customized by R.L. Turner High School in Carrollton, TX. Vehicle features winch and front bumper donated by Collins Bro’s Jeep, as well as custom seat belts from Seatbelt Planet, wheels from Rolling Big Power, and a trail rocker from Painless Performance.
For more information about the program and the vehicles, visit sema.org/student-builds or contact SEMA Youth Engagement Programs ManagerKatie Hurst at [email protected].
SEMA is partnering with five high school auto shop programs throughout the country to introduce students to and create excitement for the automotive aftermarket through real-world, hands-on experience. The partnerships, which follow a successful pilot program model between SEMA and Santa Fe Early College Opportunities (ECO) High School’s automotive program in Santa Fe, New Mexico, involve students working alongside industry professionals on vehicle builds that will be auctioned off to raise money for ongoing, sustainable student customization builds.
Last year, more than 90 students took part in the modification of a 2015 4WD Jeep Wrangler Unlimited that sold for more than $56,000 through the Bring a Trailer Auction. The funds are being used this year to purchase a new vehicle that will serve as the platform for another student build at Santa Fe High School.
Other schools participating in this year’s program include C.D. Hylton High School in Woodbridge, Virginia; Comstock High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan; R.L. Turner High School in Carrollton, Texas; and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School in Santa Ynez, California.
“We didn’t know what to expect from the inaugural program, but seeing the students’ excitement, interest and growth was amazing,” said Wade Kawasaki, SEMA Chairman of the Board. “Many auto tech programs have limited funds and are unable to provide students with the type of experience that we’re giving them. We’re happy to be able to provide students with this unique opportunity to get them excited about the customization lifestyle. It’s encouraging to know that these kids will be contributing to the industry’s future.”
More than 90 schools applied to participate in this year’s program, which is limited to five schools. Organizers hope to continue to roll the program out to even more schools next year.
“There is definitely strong interest and demand in the program,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA President and CEO. “And, going forward, we will be investigating ways in which we can expand the program so that more schools and students can participate.”
To help sustain the program, SEMA is relying on parts donations from automotive aftermarket parts manufacturer members. Products currently in need include suspension products, interior/exterior accessories, wheels and tires for 1997 through 2005 Jeep Wrangler TJs. Manufacturers interested in participating can submit details at sema.org/studentbuild.
The completed vehicles will be auctioned off to raise money for future vehicle builds, thereby creating a sustainable program at each school. For more information or details, visit sema.org/studentbuild.
Students in the Santa Fe Early College Opportunities (ECO) Auto Shop Program in Santa Fe, New Mexico, have completed the custom jeep build they started in late 2017 with SEMA Education. Next stop, the auction block.
Later this month, the jeep will be auctioned online through Bring-A-Trailer, with 100% of the proceeds going back to the school to fund another project to continuously support the auto program and educate students about vehicle builds and jobs in automotive.
More than 100 students participated in the pilot program between SEMA and the Santa Fe ECO for about six months. During the program, the students completely oversaw and executed the project vehicle build using a pre-owned vehicle purchased and donated by SEMA.
According to SEMA, upgrades and product donations from nearly two-dozen manufacturers to modify the four-wheel-drive Jeep include:
A Magnum grip shift handle kit part, front nodular iron differential cover and rear nodular iron differential cover (donated by B&M/Driven Performance Brands).
Bumpers, inner fender liners and slider steps (donated by Bodyguard Truck Accessories).
A supercharger kit (donated by Edelbrock).
A cat-back system 409s-single rear exit – American Thunder (donated by Flowmaster/Driven Performance Brands).
A 4.5-in. Stage 3 suspension kit and wheels (donated by ICON Vehicle Dynamics).
An air intake with a snorkel system, oil filter and cabin air filter (donated by K&N Engineering).
A light package (donated by Metra: The Installer’s Choice).
A tire carrier, vented hood, hood catches and an antenna (donated by Rugged Ridge/Truck Hero).
“The final build is amazing,” said Zane Clark, SEMA’s senior director of education. “Our hope was to provide students with a unique experience that would educate and inspire future industry professionals, and the end result is a top-quality vehicle that looks great and performs remarkably.”
“The students gained valuable hands-on experience that they could not get in the classroom,” said Chris Coriz, instructor at the Santa Fe ECO. “We’re excited to see the vehicle move on to the auction block and raise funds to begin the next project.”
SEMA has partnered with students from Santa Fe Early College Opportunities Applied Science Magnet School (Santa Fe ECO) Auto Tech School in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to complete a 2015 4 WD Jeep Wrangler Unlimited build. The SEMA pilot program is designed to support and engage high school students in automotive. Once completed, the Jeep will be auctioned through Bring-A-Trailer in early June to raise funds for the school’s next vehicle build.
The students in the collision repair and automotive mechanics programs at the Clearfield County Career & Technology Center (CCCTC) worked on Jeep this year.
The students in the collision repair program did a full paint job and installed new fenders. They also added decals. The students in the automotive mechanics program installed a lift kit and new wheels.
Click HERE to read the entire article about the Jeep project on the Gant News website.
Injected with an unmatched 707 horsepower courtesy of an awe-inspiring supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine, the awarded, capable, full-size SUV has been transformed into the most powerful and quickest SUV ever. Introducing the new 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.
The new benchmark 707-horsepower supercharged engine combines with an upgraded high-torque capacity TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, world-class on-road driving dynamics and new Brembo brakes to deliver a new level of performance: 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, quarter mile in 11.6 seconds at 116 mph, top speed of 180 mph, 60-0 mph braking distance in 114 feet and .88g capability on the skid pad.
Built in Detroit at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant, the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will arrive in Jeep showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2017.
Powering the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine delivering 707 horsepower and 645 lb.-ft. of torque.
The breakthrough supercharged engine is designed and manufactured using only the strongest and most durable materials. Its cast iron block features water jackets between the cylinders for optimal cooling. A forged-steel crankshaft with induction-hardened bearing surfaces is so strong it can withstand firing pressures of nearly 1,600 psi (110 bar) – the equivalent of five family sedans standing on each piston, every two revolutions. The unique, specially tuned crankshaft damper has been burst tested to 13,000 rpm.
High-strength, forged-alloy pistons – developed using advanced telemetry measurement – are coupled to powder-forged connecting rods with high-load-capacity bushings and diamond-like, carbon-coated piston pins.
Premium grade, heat-treated aluminum-alloy cylinder heads are optimized for superior thermal conductivity. Sodium-cooled exhaust valves feature hollow-stem construction and special steel-alloy heads that stand up to temperatures as high as 1,652 degrees Fahrenheit.
The 2,380cc per revolution supercharger includes integral charge-air coolers and an integrated electronic bypass valve to regulate boost pressure to a maximum of 11.6 psi. The twin-screw rotors are specially coated with:
a proprietary formula of polyimide and other resins
nanometer-sized, wear-resistant particles
solid lubricants, such as PTFE (Teflon)
The coating enables tighter clearance between the rotors. This reduces internal air leakage, delivering improved compressor performance and higher efficiencies. The coating can withstand the temperatures generated by compression, and provides superior corrosion resistance.
The supercharger is sealed for life with premium synthetic oil, uses a drive ratio of 2.36:1 and has a maximum speed of 14,600 rpm. The supercharger drive system’s one-way clutch de-coupler improves refinement, while allowing for precisely the kind of powerful sound certain to captivate Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk drivers.
Air sources for the supercharger include a cold-air scoop in the lower front fascia, which replaces the driver’s-side fog lamp and helps to feed the 92mm throttle body.
The large-nosed crankshaft drives a high-flow gerotor oil pump, which feeds a lubrication circuit that includes eight high-flow piston-cooling jets. A high-capacity oil/air heat exchanger, mounted in the front of the Trackhawk, mitigates oil temperatures when driving conditions are harshest, such as on the track.
A new low-temperature cooling system, consisting of a pump, reservoir, heat exchanger and lines, help keep the charge air cool during performance driving. This system is designed to keep intake air temperatures below 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius), under extreme ambient conditions, while enabling air flow of up to 30,000 liters per minute.
A new fuel delivery system, featuring two high-flow, multi-mode pumps, matches the high-performance demands of the engine.
Upgraded driveline components, durability and refinement result in benchmark off-road performance
The performance of the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is bolstered by various upgraded driveline components engineered to handle the additional torque output from the supercharged engine.
The standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission delivers improved shift response, quality and consistent performance and drivability. The transmission software takes into account variables such as engine torque gradients, kick-down events, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, grade changes, friction detection and downshift detection to determine the appropriate shift map.
Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is equipped with the Jeep Quadra-Trac on-demand four-wheel-drive system, which includes an electronic limited-slip rear differential and a single-speed active transfer case. The new, full-time active transfer case uses forged steel chain sprockets and a wider chain for added strength and durability.
A strengthened rear drive shaft connects to a new, stronger rear axle. The differential features a revised housing design, revised ring-and-pinion tooth geometry and new four-point axle mounting scheme for better load distribution, additional torque capacity and overall durability. Torque is delivered to the rear wheels via new ultra-high-strength 300M low-alloy vacuum melted steel half-shafts with upgraded eight-ball outboard constant velocity joints.
Standard Launch Control optimizes the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s performance by coordinating the engine, transmission, driveline and suspension for a textbook launch and consistent straight-line acceleration.
A new standard Torque Reserve system provides improved engine torque response and quicker vehicle acceleration in Launch Control by pre-positioning the supercharger bypass valve to generate boost and minimize manifold filling time, while cutting fueling to individual cylinders and managing spark timing. This generates a reserve of torque that can be instantaneously delivered upon acceleration from a standing stop.
The Selec-Track system on the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk uses performance-tuned software to pre-configure and distinguish the five dynamic modes, including: Auto, Sport, Track, Snow and Tow, enabling drivers to choose a vehicle setting that ideally meets their requirements and ambient conditions. The drive modes separately control the four-wheel-drive system, transmission, paddle shifters, suspension and the electric power steering.
Dynamic drive mode configurations include:
Auto — Automatically adapts to any condition; uses a 40-percent front/60-percent rear torque split
Sport — Transmission shift times are reduced by 50 percent versus Auto Mode; stability control, four-wheel-drive and steering systems are set for typical enthusiast driving style; paddle shifters are enabled and suspension is tightened up without increasing impact harshness to deliver increased vehicle performance capability over Auto Mode; uses 35/65 torque split
Track — Transmission shift times are reduced 68 percent versus Auto Mode to 160 milliseconds; stability control, four-wheel-drive and steering systems are set for ultimate track performance; paddle shifters are enabled and suspension is set to full firm to deliver maximum vehicle performance capability on smooth, dry surfaces; uses 30/70 torque split
Tow — Alters torque delivery off the line for greater smoothness and adjusts suspension to combat pitch and yaw to deliver maximum towing performance: uses 60/40 torque split
Snow — Maximizes traction to deliver optimized performance on snow and ice with reduced engine horsepower; uses 50/50 torque split
Trackhawk also features a Custom Mode that allows the driver to personalize the vehicle’s performance with a selectable driving experience offering a multitude of vehicle system combinations.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk rides on a short- and long-arm (SLA) independent front suspension with coil springs, Bilstein adaptive damping suspension (ADS), upper- and aluminum lower-control arms (“A” arms), aluminum knuckle, aluminum clevis and hollow stabilizer bar. The rear suspension is a multi-link design with coil spring, Bilstein ADS, aluminum lower control arm, independent upper links (tension and camber), plus a separate toe link, and a hollow stabilizer bar.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is capable of towing 7,200 pounds.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is available in nine exterior colors: Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Diamond Black, Ivory Tri-coat, Bright White, Velvet Red, Rhino (exclusive), Redline 2 (exclusive) and True Blue.
High-performance, racing-inspired interior
The driver-focused interior features premium soft-touch materials, unique Light Black Chrome finishes and carbon fiber spears, and a 7-inch driver information display (DID) instrument cluster, which features the tachometer in the middle. The 200-mph speedometer is on the left side of the cluster.
The instrument panel center stack with new 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen features Trackhawk-exclusive Performance Pages that showcase an array of performance timers and gauge readouts, including a new engine dynamometer screen that measures instantaneous horsepower, torque and current transmission gear. The dynamometer screen also includes a new snapshot function for owners to save their readouts on a USB.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk’s three-spoke steering wheel with a flat bottom features a bevy of comfort, convenience and connectivity controls and ergonomically efficient paddle shifters.
The Trackhawk features standard Nappa leather and suede seats with an embroidered “Trackhawk” logo. A fully wrapped Signature Leather Interior Package with “Trackhawk” embossed on the seats, optional in black and Trackhawk-exclusive black and Dark Ruby Red is available. Seats are also heated (front and rear) and ventilated (front). Dark Ruby Red seatbelts and a dual-pane panoramic sunroof are also available options.
Since 1941, the Jeep name has symbolized a unique family of go-anywhere, do-anything vehicles – first developed for military use, and after 1945, continually adapted for a wide variety of civilian applications. The Jeep brand is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2016, and to mark the occasion, a commemorative one-of-a-kind Wrangler 75th Salute concept vehicle is being created today as a tribute to the brand’s legendary history and military heritage.
“We are creating this unique Jeep Wrangler 75th Salute concept vehicle in celebration of the brand’s legendary history, and to demonstrate that 75 years later, today’s iconic Jeep Wrangler is instantly recognizable and clearly connected to the original Willys MB,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “Since they were first produced in 1941, Jeep vehicles have been the authentic benchmark for off-road capability, having mastered more terrain, led more adventures and provided drivers more freedom than any other vehicle before or since.”
The “function over form” of the original Jeep military service vehicles is evident in this unique concept vehicle. The Wrangler 75th Salute concept – a modern interpretation of the Willys MB – is based on a two-door Wrangler Sport and highlights rugged functionality with heritage design cues, including the absence of B-pillars and doors. The exterior features an olive-drab color scheme that was first seen on military vehicles 75 years ago and is present throughout the Wrangler 75th Salute concept.
Features, including 16-inch steel wheels wrapped in 32-inch military non-directional tires, hood latches, a rear-mounted spare tire, steel front and rear bumpers with tow hooks and low back canvas seats, echo the original military Jeep vehicles. Other features include custom wood hood blocks and side mirrors, as well as bronze commemorative fender badges.
The Jeep Wrangler 75th Salute concept vehicle is built on the same assembly line that has produced the Wrangler in Toledo, Ohio, for decades, and is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Restored 1946 Jeep CJ-2A with Farm Jeep options was part of Off Road Success section of the 2015 SEMA Show.
Ohioan John North Willys knew World War II wouldn’t last forever and began thinking about how he could sell more Jeeps after hostilities ended. As early as 1942, the Jeep was tested by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for possible use in farming. There were many jobs a Jeep could do on a farm, but cultivating crops wasn’t one. The Jeep of that era was too low for cultivation use and its track was different than the track of the tractors used for row cropping.
More testing along these lines was done by a college in the state of Washington during 1943 and 1944 and by the latter year, Willys was already running ads suggesting the Jeep could do some jobs a tractor was used for. This 1944 civilian version of the Jeep was the CJ-1 and there was a model for farm use called the AgriJeep. It had a hitch, a larger clutch and different gear ratios.
After WWII, the CJ-2 was brought out. Agricultural versions of this Jeep were developed and tested by schools such as Cornell University/ As more farmers got interested, Willys and other suppliers designed farm equipment to fit the Jeep. Actual tractors, like the Empire, were also made from Jeep parts.
This buzz saw could be a big help with many farm chores.
By 1949, the Jeep CJ-3A replaced the CJ-2A. It was larger inside and had a higher windshield. Nebraska Tractor Testing was done to check out the CJ-3A’s suitability for farm use. Willys formed a Farm Sales Department and two new models called the Farm Jeep and Jeep Tractor were introduced.
The Farm Jeep came with an hydraulic lift, drawbar, prop shaft guards, heftier springs and a variable speed belt driven governor all installed at the factory, The Jeep Tractor had the same equipment plus a power take off, a front bumper weight and a radiator chaff screen. The field-use-only Tractor lacked front shock absorbers, a spare tire, a windshield, a fuel pump vacuum booster, a tailgate, lights, door curtain holders, an oil filter, a speedometer and a horn.
Any Jeep old or new could be turned into a Farm Jeep by purchasing the right equipment, although the Real McCoy had specific coding. For example the first Farm Jeep VIN number is 451-GC1 10001. The fifth symbol C indicates a Farm Jeep. If the fifth symbol were D it would indicate a Jeep Tractor.
This Farm Jeep has a front PTO winch and an engine-driven air compressor. It also has a side arm mower bar on the driver’s side.
Technically, vehicles that left the factory as Farm Jeeps or Jeep Tractors are 1951 or later CJ-3A or CJ-3B models. However, many CJ-2A and earlier CJ-3A Jeeps were retrofitted as either version. Both models were heavily advertised in farming publications and many conversions were done due to the publicity both models received. After the CJ-3B arrived, the Farm Jeep disappeared from the factory offerings. Willys advertised the CJ-5 to farmers, but Jeep historians say that no CJ-5 Farm Jeeps were manufactured.
This 1946 Willys CJ-2A fitted as a Farm Jeep is from the Rugged Ridge/OMIX-ADA corporate Jeep collection. This Farm Jeep has a front PTO winch and an engine-driven air compressor. It has a General Electric 6WD 200-amp arc welder in the passenger seat area and a side arm mower bar on the driver’s side. It also has a Canfield folding wrecker made by Canfield Tow Bar Co., of Detroit, Mich., and a Newgren buzz saw with table. The dual tires front and rear provided stability and traction when the Jeep was used in farm fields.
Additional equipment offered by Willys and other companies was separated into two categories of options, agricultural and industrial. The complete list according to Willys Farm Jeep advertisements was as follows:
Agricultural options:
Power Take-Off
Drawbar
Single 16-in. mould board plow
Double 12-in. mould board plow
Twin-disc, 26-in. plow
Brush and bog harrow
Tandem disc harrow
8.5-in. spring tooth harrow
6-ft. field and pasture cultivator
6-ft. farm mower
Terracing blade
Industrial equipment options:
60cfm or 105cfm. compressors
12.5 kva generator
300-amp D.C. arc welder
Hydro-grader and terracer
Lift-type overland scraper
Pulley for center PTO
Monroe hydraulic implement lift (Controlled from the driver’s seat)
PTO and tow bar hitch
Centrifugal-type King-Seeley governor
Front brush guards for the front and rear prop shafts
Transfer case baffle plate
Special wheels
7-in. tires
Front soldenized mildew-resistant duck top w/double-sewn seams
Rear top
Hydraulic lift
Half and full canvas and metal tops
High temperature thermostat
High altitude cylinder head
Passenger safety rail and rear passenger seat
Seven new, ultra-capable Jeep concept vehicles, featuring an array of Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts available to consumers, will conquer the trails of Moab, Utah, at Easter Jeep Safari, March 19-27. Thousands of off-road enthusiasts are expected to descend upon Moab this year to celebrate what will likely be the most popular Jeep Safari ever, as the 50th annual event coincides with the 75th anniversary of the Jeep brand.
The 2016 crop of Easter Jeep Safari concept vehicles utilizes both production and prototype Jeep Performance Parts. The Mopar brand is responsible for developing, building and ensuring that all Jeep Performance Parts meet rigorous specifications and with 4×4 capabilities in mind, allowing Jeep owners to further enhance their stock vehicle.
The seven new Jeep concept vehicles built for Moab this year were created by a team of dedicated, passionate engineers, designers and fabricators that have been customizing production vehicles since 2002, and have introduced more than 50 concept vehicles for the enthusiasts who attend the popular Easter Jeep Safari.
The 2016 Easter Jeep Safari concept vehicles include:
Jeep Crew Chief 715
The Jeep Crew Chief 715 concept vehicle was built as a salute to legendary Jeep military service vehicles, in particular the Kaiser M715. This open-air Wrangler Unlimited-based concept vehicle showcases a burly design with heritage styling cues. The Crew Chief 715 utilizes modern-day construction with a rear seat and extra doors for additional passenger capacity while staying close to its classic military roots.
Jeep Crew Chief 715
Original Jeep military service vehicles were legendary for getting troops through rugged terrain, and the Jeep Crew Chief 715 illustrates this legacy. Steel front and rear bumpers, 20-inch beadlock wheels and 40-inch NDT military tires pay homage to the original Jeep military vehicles. The Crew Chief 715 utilizes an on-board air system with a hard-mounted quick-disconnect fitting for airing up or lending assistance to other vehicles on the trail. Other features include a master cylinder brake upgrade, cold air intake and a modified exhaust.
Exterior features, such as Jeep Performance Parts off-road rock rails, a winch mounted into the front and rear bumpers, Dana 60 front and rear axles and a 4-inch lift kit with Jeep Performance Parts/Fox 2.0 Remote Reservoir shocks, give the Crew Chief 715 increased capability. The “Tactical Green” color scheme runs from the custom modified M715-inspired front-end to the tailgate. The Crew Chief 715 features a military themed 5-foot cargo bed.
Inside, the no-nonsense interior features leather bucket seats with canvas inserts, aircraft-inspired control switches and Mopar all-weather mats. The media center features a centrally located navigational compass.
The Jeep Crew Chief 715 is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Shortcut
A carefully crafted take on the beloved Jeep CJ-5, this Wrangler-based concept vehicle invokes the spirit of 1950s Americana with a shortened body and functional simplicity.
Jeep Shortcut
Exterior styling cues include a unique grille, hood, tailgate, front and rear wheel flares and custom chrome front and rear bumpers. A modified exhaust, 17-inch red steel wheels and 35-inch BF-Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM2 tires help the Jeep Shortcut maintain the look of an icon.
Jeep Performance Parts featured on the Shortcut include a front and rear Dana 44 axle and a 2-inch lift with Fox shocks. Overall body length has been reduced by more than 12 inches to keep the Shortcut concept vehicle light and maneuverable on the trails.
Inside, the simple yet functional interior features low-back leather bucket seats with plaid inserts, a red ball shifter handle, four-point safety cage and Mopar all-weather mats.
The Jeep Shortcut is powered by the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Renegade Commander
The Jeep Renegade Commander concept vehicle is equipped with an assortment of Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts for the ultimate off-road adventure. A 2-inch lift kit and 17-inch Rubicon aluminum wheels with 29.5-inch BF-Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires increase the off-road capabilities of the Jeep Renegade Commander.
Jeep Renegade Commander
The “Fluorescent Gray” exterior features Renegade’s MySky open-air roof with removable panels, custom body decal, Mopar off-road rock rails, skid plates and a modified exhaust. Also featured are the Mopar brand’s trailer hitch receiver and front and rear auxiliary lights.
Inside, the Renegade Commander includes Katzkin seat covers, body color bezel accents, a pedal kit, Mopar off-road kit and Mopar all-weather floor mats.
The Jeep Renegade Commander is powered by the 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with MultiAir2 mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission with Jeep Active Drive Low.
Jeep Comanche
Based on the Jeep Renegade, the Jeep Comanche concept vehicle is designed to be off-road ready with practical utility. A nod to Jeep pickup trucks of years past, the Comanche concept takes styling cues from military and civilian Jeep heritage.
Jeep Comanche
The Comanche’s “Beige Against the Machine” concept exterior paint is accented with a Satin Black hood, a concept lower front fascia, winch, steel rear bumper, soft top and spare tire in the bed. The wheelbase has been stretched an additional six inches versus a production Renegade to accommodate Comanche’s 5-foot bed.
Inside, the Comanche features custom seat covers, pedal covers, door sill guards and Mopar all-weather mats. Jeep Performance Parts like off-road rock rails, a 2-inch lift kit and a winch bolster the Comanche’s off-road capability. The Comanche rolls on 16-inch painted wheels and 32-inch BF-Goodrich All Terrain T/A tires.
The Jeep Comanche is powered by a 2.0-liter diesel I-4 engine and mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission with Jeep Active Drive Lock, which includes low range and a locking rear differential.
Jeep FC 150
A true American workhorse, this 1960 Jeep FC 150 concept vehicle is rich with heritage and built to tackle both challenging rocky trails and the harshness of a western cattle ranch. Originally built from 1956 to 1965, the FC 150 is based on the CJ-5 and offers a clever packaging solution by keeping overall length to a minimum for maneuverability, but maintaining a full-length cargo box for utility.
Jeep FC 150
This heritage Jeep vehicle continues to utilize its original steel body that proudly bears battle scars while components underneath have been revamped. The FC 150’s off-road prowess has been enhanced courtesy of a 2005 Jeep Wrangler chassis modified to accept a Dana 44 front axle, Dana 60 rear axle and 17-inch white steel wheels wrapped in 33-inch BF-Goodrich Mud-Terrain T/A KM2 tires.
Inside, the FC 150 features vinyl seat covers, a custom headliner wrapped in a vintage duck hunting pattern, CB radio, analog compass and Mopar all-weather mats.
The Jeep FC 150 heritage vehicle is powered by a 4.0-liter PowerTech I-6 and is mated to a 3-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Trailcat
The Jeep Trailcat concept vehicle is the ultimate off-road machine, equally at home on Moab’s rugged trails or a high-speed section. Utilizing the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI Hellcat V-8 engine, and mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with a custom shifter ball featuring an embossed Hellcat logo, the Trailcat concept vehicle leaves everything else in a cloud of dust.
Jeep Trailcat
To get the 707-horsepower Hellcat engine into the Trailcat, designers stretched the wheelbase an additional 12 inches while chopping the windshield two inches for a sleeker look. Mopar exterior enhancements include a power-dome vented hood, Satin Black grille, LED headlamps and fog lamps and rock rails.
The robust off-road look is further aided by steel front and rear bumpers, 17-inch beadlock wheels and 39.5-inch BF-Goodrich Krawler T/A KX tires, front and rear Dana 60 axles and Fox shocks.
Subtle design cues, such as a Hellcat decal on the front quarter panels and a “Trailcat” decal on the side of the hood, hint at the horsepower that lurks beneath, making this much more than a typical production Wrangler. The Trailcat’s interior is simple yet functional and features sport bucket seats from the Dodge Viper, made from carbon fiber and featuring Katzkin leather seat covers with accent stitching.
Jeep Trailstorm
The Trailstorm concept vehicle is the ultimate Jeep Wrangler for exploring off the beaten path. Offering room for extra gear and fuel tanks, it is based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, and delivers elevated capability to conquer trails with ease.
Jeep Trailstorm
Off-road capabilities are enhanced with several Jeep Performance Parts, including 17-inch concept off-road wheels wrapped in 37-inch tires, a 2-inch lift kit with Jeep Performance Parts/Fox shocks, a Jeep Performance Parts Rubicon winch, and Dana 44 front and rear axles. Half doors offer a clear view of obstacles ahead and a bedlined interior makes cleaning up after a day on the trails easy.
Mopar exterior enhancements include a winch guard, Satin Black grille, LED headlights and fog lights, high top fenders, power-dome vented hood, Mopar off-road rock rails with a step, Big Brake Kit, a concept fast-back soft top, tail light guards and a Mopar fuel filler door. Finishing the Trailstorm’s exterior upgrades are a steel front and rear Rubicon bumper and a Jeep Performance Parts tire carrier. The Trailstorm is wrapped in camouflage allowing it to blend into its surroundings in the Utah desert.
The Trailstorm’s bedlined interior also features Katzkin seat covers and Mopar all-weather floor mats. The Jeep Trailstorm is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission.
