Jeep scoops itself with SEMA concepts

The annual SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) expo in Las Vegas is still several months away (October 30 to November 2), but Jeep has already posted pictures of two show-bound concepts on its corporate blog.

Both design studies -- the Wrangler Ultimate and JT Concept -- are based on the four-door Wrangler Unlimited (more here), but gain various enhancements to clearly separate them from the donor vehicle.

The dark-hued Wrangler Ultimate sports a 75mm lift to clear the massive 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain tyres, which are mounted on custom-made polished Alcoa Forged 18-inch wheels.

Other visual tweaks include lashings of chrome on the fuel filler door, tail lamp guards, tubular side steps, exterior mirrors, tow hooks, door handles, hood hinges and fascia overlays.

Also unique to the Ultimate is the Liquid Charcoal Pearl Coat duco, which isn't to be found on the factory colour charts.

For the interior, the designers derived inspiration from adventure sports bags and accessories.

In keeping with the vehicle's job description, the seats are trimmed in durable orange mesh fabric and dark slate grey Nappa/Province leather, bound with a heavy black leather baseball stitch.

The Wrangler JT is also based on the four-door Unlimited, even though it's configured as a utilitarian two-door pick-up.

And it's clearly no softie as Jeep has equipped the vehicle with an offroad package that enables it to traverse extreme terrain.

Offroad enhancements include a three-inch suspension lift, 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tyres, upgraded rear bumper and rock rails and an all-new Ramsey 9500 UT winch.

The Jeep Wrangler JT was recently put to the test at the 'Hell's Revenge' trail in Utah, USA, and it reportedly was equal to the extreme climbs and descents presented by the hard-core track.

Jeep says the JT's off-road capability was proven as it tackled the slick water tubs and waterfalls, which at times had it "nearly vertical to the ground".

There's no official word yet as to whether either of the two concepts will spawn production variants, but they're likely to be Jeep's way of gauging market response before proceeding any further.

To comment on this story click here.