Willys was an American car brand that operated from 1912 to 1955, when it was acquired by Kaiser Motors. The company was best known for its Jeep vehicles, especially the Jeep CJ series, which was an iconic off-road vehicle that first came out in 1945. Willys also produced a range of cars, from small economy cars to luxury cars, as well as a range of military vehicles. Willys is remembered for its pioneering role in the development of the SUV, and for its iconic Jeep vehicles, which remain popular today.