Jeep is considering bringing back the iconic Willys nameplate as an affordable electric SUV sometime after 2030. The proposed SUV might take cues from the original off-roader.
Jeep considering bringing back Willys nameplate for new electric SUV
New Delhi:Jeep is considering the possibility of reviving the legendary Willys nameplate as a compact electric SUV. The original Willys became famous for its military exploits during World War II. The American carmaker now wants to use that heritage to develop an affordable electric off-roader.
Jeep Europe head Xavier Peugeot spoke toAutocar UKand has hinted that the Willys nameplate remains an important consideration for the brand’s future. However, the brand has not officially approved the project or given a production timeline.
Jeep Willys EV design language
A recent teaser from Stellantis offers a possible glimpse of the upcoming Willys-inspired SUV. The image shows the original Willys MB military vehicle alongside the silhouette of a larger, boxy SUV with a fixed roof and a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate.
The silhouette also suggests that Jeep could retain some of the traditional off-road design elements. That includes upright proportions and a rugged appearance. The teaser also features the words ‘Not Fragile’, hinting at the vehicle’s potential focus on durability and off-road capabilities.
However, Jeep has made nothing official in terms of whether the vehicle shown in the teaser represents the final design of the proposed electric Willys.
Jeep Willys EV platform and powertrain
The revived Willys could use a new affordable electric vehicle architecture currently under development by Stellantis. The platform is being designed for smaller EVs that could meet the European Union’s proposed E-car regulations.
The same platform is also likely to underpin the production version of the recently showcased Citroën 2CV concept. Peugeot even pointed out affordability as an important consideration for Jeep’s future electric vehicles. This suggests that the Willys could be placed towards the lower end of the brand’s lineup.
Interestingly, Peugeot also indicated that every future Jeep model would be compatible with a four-wheel-drive setup. This suggests that the proposed Willys EV could offer 4×4 capability, helping distinguish it from other affordable electric models within the Stellantis group.
Jeep is expected to consider the Willys revival after completing its current ‘Road to 2030’ strategy. Peugeot has indicated that the company could provide more clarity regarding its plans for the historic nameplate before the end of the decade. However, the manufacturer has not committed to a specific launch year or confirmed that the electric Willys will enter production.
It would also form part of Jeep’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Europe, where competition from Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers continues to increase. For now, the Willys revival remains an idea under consideration, with further details expected closer to 2030.
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Roheen is an enthusiast for all things sports and motoring. He regularly follows football and cricket and immerses himself in the tactical intricacies of the game and keeps his eye on the automotive industry’s development.
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