MB and GPW (1941-1945)
In July 1941, the U.S. War Department sought to streamline its military vehicle production by selecting a single manufacturer for an order of 16,000 vehicles. Willys-Overland was awarded the contract primarily due to its innovative "Go Devil" engine, which provided superior power and garnered positive feedback from soldiers, as well as its lower production costs and compact silhouette. The winning design, designated "MB," emerged as a culmination of enhancements from competing models, notably incorporating safety features such as the strategic placement of the fuel tank beneath the driver's seat to minimize vulnerabilities. However, by October 1941, the demand exceeded Willys' production capabilities, leading to Ford's involvement under the designation "GPW," referencing the licensed Willys design. Throughout World War II, Willys produced approximately 363,000 Jeeps, while Ford manufactured around 280,000, with a notable 51,000 vehicles being exported to Russia via the Lend-Lease program.

