Jeep Wrangler Vehicle Design

After working 2.5 years flat out on the Cirrus and Stratus sedans my vehicle design journey took a radical turn. I was transferred to the Jeep studio to work on the next Wrangler. A full understanding of the Jeep culture was not something I was versed in. I knew the history of the brand but didn’t fully understand the values. This is reflected in the sketches below. They were done very early on before I was immersed in what not to do! It was only after I met with hardcore, passionate Jeep owners did I start to put together a plan for how to design the next version of this beloved vehicle. Getting the chance to design such an iconic vehicle was an incredible responsibility. One I took very seriously.

Early on, I’m already drawing round headlights and using the Jeep grill in new places. I may have not understood the Jeep culture but I knew a Jeep should have round headlights! The next thing I addressed was the 7 bar grill. It was another signature design element that needed to be taken to a new level. I used this as the air intake on the cowl. This has been credited with being the first automotive “Easter Egg”. Almost all manufacturers now use “Easter Eggs” routinely in their designs. Motor Authority did a piece covering my Jeep design legacy. It can be read here. The “skateboard” side step which prevents the vehicle from getting stuck on rocks when off-road is another detail I am proud of.