Jeep, sturdy, all-purpose, small but high-powered open automobile, first mass-produced for the United States armed forces in 1940. Combining the ruggedness of a truck with the speed and mobility of a light car, the original jeep, called a “peep” during World War II (1939-45), was about 3 m (11 ft) long and 1.5 m (5 ft) wide, carried six passengers, and could travel about 105 km/h (about 65 mph). Essential features were a powerful engine, two- and four-wheel drive, and deep-treaded tires. A standard jeep can haul a load of half a ton or more and maneuvers well over mud or hilly terrain. Modern jeeps, available commercially, are often capable of traveling at speeds of 144 km/h (90 mph) or greater. The popular name is derived from the abbreviation of (g.p.) “general-purpose” vehicle.
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