Ford GP

Ford GPunrestrained, prototype is at the base of many of the characteristics of the standard jeep of World War II.

Created by the automotive giant Ford, who wanted to become a major supplier to the army vehicles, this model is the evolution of the Ford Pygmy. It was too heavy, too little powerful and had other concerns compared to the Willys and Bantam model. After the tests, this model was approved for 1,500 units like the two competitors)see the article on the origin of the jeep).

Ford GP in 1941

The model Ford "GP" means in the consolidation of manufacturing:

-G for Government

-P for the 80 inch wheelbase

The term thus GP didn't say "General Purpose", as he is often heard.

This model brought together so many qualities of the Pygmywith improvements gleaned on the models of the competitors. But it was not successful, despite the fort lobby and the pressure performed by Ford.

However,.  Ford will produce jeeps. They entered production in February 1941, and after the signing of the contracts they fought the first 4 500 GPW jeeps in November 1941. 50 of these jeeps were equipped with four wheel drive, but the project was abandoned.

Most of the Ford GP were sent to the allies in need at this time. But they were always possible and its transmission was not as well designed as the jeep MA, although some of these features will come in the jeep MB / GPW, future standard model of the U.S. Army.

Other photos of the Willys-Overland jeep my:

Photos taken at the Ford River plant red during manufacturing, in 1941.
On the left, the jeep is complete. It is located in the room to infrared rays for the application of the paint.
Right, after plugged and secured the engine, all of the body is put in place on the chassis.

Ford Gp test in the zone test Ford, the Ford River Rouge (near Detroit) factory in mid 1941

Test of the Ford GP with the snow at Fort Riley chains

A Ford GP and four cadets from West Point to Fort Benning in summer 1941 (the helmet M-41 was brand new at the time)