Jeep J8

The Jeep J8 is a military vehicle based on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited platform built by Chrysler LLC. The model was introduced at the Defence Systems & Equipment International (DSEi) trade show on September 13, 2007. Targeted for use by the militaries in overseas markets, the J8 is not available in the United States because it will not meet U.S. emissions requirements. The J8 will be produced in a Chrysler LLC joint-venture facility in Cairo, Egypt, and will be available from Spring 2008. [cite web|url=http://www.jeephorizons.com/news/j8_091307.html|title=New Military Version of Jeep Wrangler Unlimited|work=jeephorizons.com|accessdate=September 16|accessyear=2007] [cite web|url=http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/autos/0709/gallery.jeep_wrangler_history//index.html?cnn=yes|title=Back in the Army|work=CNN.com|accessmonthday=September 23 |accessyear=2007]

The J8 is equipped with larger brakes, axles and suspension components than the civilian version and has a payload capacity of 1,339 kg (2,952 lb.) The J8 also differs from the civilian model by utilizing rear leaf springs. The Jeep J8 is powered by a VM Motori 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 Nm (295 ft·lbf) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lb.). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to wade in water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and tackle sandstorm conditions for up to five hours.

Available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle, it may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand- or left-hand-drive.

While not designed for front-line combat operations, the Jeep J8 is fully armour capable and can be used for a variety of duties ranging from command vehicle, troop/cargo carrier, ambulance or communications vehicle. Heavy-duty bumpers with tow eyes allow the Jeep J8 to be easily transported by fixed wing aircraft or helicopter.

On July 2, 2008, the production version of the Jeep J8 was unveiled at Euro Camp Jeep 2008, a customer event in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. [cite web|url=http://www.jeephorizons.com/news/j8_071008.html|title=Iconic Jeep J8 Offers Cargo and Towing For Humanitarian, Commercial and Military Uses|work=jeephorizons.com|accessdate=September 7|accessyear=2008]

ee also

* AIL Storm - Israeli Security Forces workhorse

References