When World War II started, the military requested auto manufacturers of the time to develop a vehicle that was nimble, tough, and ready to serve under fire. Three companies stood up to the challenge: the American Bantam Car Company, Willys-Overland, and the Ford Motor Company. While the Bantam Company created the first Jeep design, they lacked the means to mass produce the car in the quantities required by the military. The design was then handed off to Willys-Overland and Ford, with Willys producing the classic Jeep we know today.
Why the Willys?
The Willys Jeep served for a very long time. Its dependability, quickness, handling, lightweight sturdiness, and versatility made it indispensable. It could handle most terrain, was easy to keep running, and withstood extreme temperatures across the world. Many military leaders, including General and later President Dwight D. Eisenhower, said that the Jeep was one of the reasons the Allies won the war. But all things must come to an end, and the Willys Jeep was replaced—but only after many more decades of military use. So, what vehicle replaced the Willys Jeep in military service?
Here Comes the Humvee
Military technology advanced, requiring a more advanced vehicle. Weapons, explosives, and other means of attack became more powerful and penetrative, requiring vehicles that were close-topped and more akin to tanks and other armored vehicles. The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (aka the HMMWV or, colloquially, the Humvee) took the stage in the 1980s. Bigger and more durable than the Jeep, the Humvee hastened the Jeep’s retirement. But those aren’t the only reasons the Humvee took over.
Humvee Benefits
Bigger was better with the Humvee. Here are a few advantages of the vehicles.
Increased Payload and Armor
Jeeps could handle a few passengers and even haul a trailer. But Humvees met the new demand for vehicles that could carry heavier loads and protect the troops inside from the weapons, IEDs, and other destructive devices outside.
Versatility and Adaptability
Surely, the Jeep was a spry and mobile vehicle, but it was, at its core, a car. Humvees were easily adapted to different duties, serving as mobile command centers, troop transports, cargo movers, and reconnaissance vehicles.
Technological Accommodation
As a more modern vehicle, Humvees offered more advanced systems, including better suspension, advanced electrical systems, and greater accommodation for communication and other devices.
Humvees could simply do more—and do it better and faster—than Jeeps.
Legacy
So, what vehicle replaced the Willys Jeep in military service? The Humvee, but it was a fair handoff. Jeeps may be retired from military service, but old soldiers never die, nor do they always fade away. Vintage Jeep fans continue to find, restore, update, and upgrade these old warhorses. If you’re interested in renovating your own Jeep, you’ve come to the place with the best Willys Jeep replacement parts. Contact us today with any questions about how to keep your vintage Jeep rolling!