Removable-glass Jeep may be coming our way (updated)

Engineers at Jeep, or FCA US to be more accurate, have patented a removable window system which lets windows be removed with relative ease. The patent, filed on January 31, 2023, and published on August 1, 2024, comes to us via Tomaz at Allpar.com (who found it at MotorAuthority).

The basic idea is that windows can be firmly secured by rather complicated rotation latches. One handle is coupled to the latch, and a wave washer is coupled to the handle; rotating the handle moves the wave washer in and out of engagement.

It’s a rather clever setup which may be destined for the upcoming Jeep Recon, to make up for the fixed roof of that upcoming electric car. The Recon looks as though it’s meant to be a rock crawler and true off-roader, like the Wrangler but not as hard-core; it’s likely to have a long-travel independent suspension and removable doors and windows.

Having a fixed roof would be a major benefit in many ways, since it brings body stiffness without adding a massive amount of weight; one reason for the Wrangler’s heavy weight is the need to prevent body flex even when no roof or doors are in place. Being able to take out the glass could be the next best thing to going roofless.

The inventors are listed as being Michigan residents Jason Schultz, David Pennala, and Sahas Chakilam.