|
|
Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Grand Cherokee was
a spinoff of the notably smaller Jeep Cherokee.
Based on the Jeep Concept 1 (1989), the Grand
Cherokee's origins date back to 1983 when
American Motors engineers were designing a
Cherokee successor. The first generation was
the first Chrysler-badged Jeep product since
AMC came up with the concept; the AMC engineers/designers
behind the project, later Chrysler employees
(after the 1987 buyout) were pushing for a
late 1980s release date; however, then-CEO
Lee Iacocca was pushing for redesigned Chrysler
minivans, delaying the Grand Cherokee's release
until late 1992.
The Grand Cherokee debuted
in grand fashion at the 1992 North American
International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.
Then-Chrysler president Robert Lutz drove
Detroit mayor, Coleman Young up the steps
of Cobo Hall and through a plate glass window
to show off the new vehicle. Production of
the Grand Cherokee started shortly afterward
in the purpose-built Jefferson North Assembly
in Detroit, Michigan and has remained there
since.
|
|
|