5 Interesting Facts You Might Not Know About Jeeps

Jeep owners all around the globe have one particular thing in common: they adore their rides. And many can rattle off everything they know about their beloved trucks. But can they tell you about the Jeep brand itself? Here are some of the most interesting facts you might not know about Jeeps.
Purple Heart Recipient
After being damaged by shrapnel to its windshield, a Jeep nicknamed “Old Faithful” received the honorable Purple Heart Award. The award is typically reserved for soldiers wounded or deceased due to their efforts in service, but Old Faithful received the award after carrying four Marine Corps generals in the Battle of Guadalcanal and the invasion of Bougainville during World War II.
American Hands Produce Jeeps
Though not every piece of all Jeep vehicles are produced on American soil, the most famous and popular versions of the Jeep are the Gladiator, Wrangler, Compass, and Cherokee—and their construction takes place in various places throughout the country.
Jeep Does Not Stand Alone
It may seem as if Jeep owns and operates as a solo party, but interestingly, the company has been a member of the Fiat Chrysler family since 1987. And the train doesn’t stop there. The parent company is Stellantis, which oversees the global production of Jeep, Fiat, Chrysler, Dodge, and RAM.
Resale Value Matters
Unfortunately, most cars depreciate the minute they leave the lot. The upside to a Jeep Wrangler is that its value isn’t significantly affected whether you buy new or used. Its resale value is much higher than that of other vehicle options and competitors. Jeep Wranglers are known for durability and reliability, so they see staggering numbers on the market no matter their age. Compared to its once-discontinued rivals, the Bronco and the Blazer, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the most dependable vehicles, further adding to its higher resale value.
The Origin of the Jeep Name
Of all the interesting facts you might not know about Jeeps, the exact explanation for the brand’s name remains a mystery. There are many conspiracies as to where the name started, but one of the more popular theories is the character of Eugene from the Popeye comics. Eugene is a dog-cat hybrid most known for his ability to “do anything and go anywhere”—just like Jeep’s motto.
The history of Jeep is more captivating than the average Joe would assume. Whether these facts were news to you or not, you probably can’t help but be intrigued and hungry for more.