LAS VEGAS - Amid the vast amounts of souped up Jeep Wrangler display vehicles at the 2016 SEMA show stands something Fiat Chrysler Automobiles likes to call a 'unique cocktail of three Jeep vehicle generations.'
The automaker heralds it as a Jeep CJ66, and saw fit to infuse this unique orange-hued vehicle with a TJ Wrangler frame, JK styling elements including bumper and headlamps, and a 1966 CJ body.
In all, FCA will have 20 concept vehicles from all walks of its stable of brands on display as the SEMA show opens today at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
“The Mopar customized vehicles speak to our ability to assist owners in creating a ride that fits the blueprint of their individual lifestyles,” said Pietro Gorlier, FCA's Head of Parts and Service. “Our SEMA lineup highlights the parts and accessories we have available to bring vintage Mopar vehicles roaring to life, fuel family fun for all, equip off-roaders for trail adventures, and so much more."
"Our job at Mopar is to help customers to enhance their current rides, but also inspire our sister brands and customers to have fun, push boundaries and imagine new customization possibilities for the exceptional portfolio of FCA vehicles.”
For the CJ66, FCA started with a six-speed manual transmission, then added front and rear Dana 44 axles along with several Mopar accessories such as an engine cover, cold-air intake, and cat-back exhaust.
FCA then added 35-inch BFG all-terrain tires on 17-inch Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) beadlock wheels, and paired them with a two-inch lift kit. The company custom painted the beadlock rings to match the vehicle's 'Copper Canyon' finish and also made sure to include a concept two-way air system which allows off-roaders to quickly air up or air down tires to the desired pressure.
Finishing off the exterior, FCA dropped in concept fender flares, Mopar 10th Anniversary Wrangler JK Rubicon Bumper Kits, JPP skid and front bumper plates and concept JPP rock rails custom cut to fit the Wrangler CJ body.
The concept CJ66's hood, bezel and latch are also colored matte black, while the vehicle utilizes JK headlamps, Mopar LED amber fog lamps and a Mopar Warn winch. The custom, race-car-inspired fuel filler cap is shifted to the inside fender wheel well.
On the inside, the old CJ seats are gone and replaced with custom Viper seats featuring concept seat risers. FCA supplied a custom-built roll cage, mandril-bent to match the windshield surround, and topped it with a bikini top. The company also added a nice touch with a special 50th Anniversary Moab Easter Jeep Safari logo centered on the custom steering wheel. A Wrangler JK center console and shifter were imported, with Mopar instrument panel gauges and Mopar all-weather mats completing the interior.
The annual Mopar press event will take place today at 7:26 p.m. EST/4:26 p.m. PST. The event will include a special reveal of new Mopar-powered products.
