Jeep is considering the possibility of releasing a compact electric off-roader in the style of its legendary Willys MB, which was used by the US army during World War II, reports Autocar.

In this way, the company hopes to strengthen its position in Europe and withstand competition from Chinese automakers.

Speaking at the Paris motor show, new Jeep chief Xavier Peugeot described the Willys as the American brand's "key attention" for the future.

He said it was one of several "new ideas" that could be realized in the coming years, as "a key card to play in the fightback” against new competitors.

"People want the original. They expect Jeep to remain as strong and connected to its original values as possible," Peugeot said.

So far, the project is in its early stages. The Jeep boss did not give a specific release date for the car, but hinted that more specific plans could emerge by the end of the decade, after the brand’s current development strategy is completed by 2030.

Peugeot highlighted the affordable price and compact dimensions of the new car as potential features. This suggests that the future Willys will have a fully electric powertrain. He noted that all new Jeep models will feature all-wheel drive.

The company’s respective ad campaign shows a short, angular off-roader with a spare tire on the rear door. Its proportions resemble the Suzuki Jimny, but the concept should retain the practical nature of the original military vehicle.

The revival of the Willys could be part of a larger refresh of Jeep’s European lineup. By 2030, the brand intends to introduce up to six new models and expand its coverage of the European off-roader market from about 50% to 90%.

One of the key innovations will be the new generation of the Jeep Renegade. The model, whose sales have reached 610 thousand units since its launch in 2014, will be back on the roads by 2030. In addition, in 2027, the company plans to bring the Wrangler-inspired Recon electric off-roader to Europe, as well as introduce another off-roader in the D segment.

A possible electric Willys could occupy the niche of affordable small off-roaders and become Jeep's answer to new European models being developed by other brands of the Stellantis concern, including Citroën and Fiat.