Last week, Motor Trend reported that Jeep has accepted to return to its military roots as Chrysler introduced its Jeep J8 at the 2007 Defense Systems & Equipment International military trade show in London.
Several weeks ago, a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited test mule was spotted and presumed to be the much-anticipated JT-pickup concept. It turned out to be the versatile J8 Military Jeep. The J8 will be a flexible vehicle for the military, in that it'll have the options of left- or right-hand drive. It also will be available as a four-door SUV or two-door pickup with an extended bed.
The 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel engine has been modified with a special air intake and hood-mounted snorkel to allow the vehicle to withstand sand storms and drive through 30 inches of water, a key feature for the military in Middle East and African countries. The engine also makes 158 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission.
The J8 can tow up to 7716 pounds with a maximum payload of 2952 pounds with the help of a reinforced frame, leaf-spring rear suspension, and upgraded brakes and axles, along with other suspension modifications.
The J8 will be available in spring 2008 and produced in Egypt.
Source: Jeep returns the Wrangler to its military roots with new J8