Jeep Wrangler owners are already familiar with the thrill of removing their vehicle’s roof and doors to enjoy the freedom of open-air driving. Now, Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, is taking that experience to the next level by filing a patent for removable car windows, offering even greater flexibility for drivers seeking enhanced ventilation and an immersive driving experience.
On August 1, 2023, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) released a patent application from Stellantis, which was originally filed earlier in 2023. This new concept focuses on a “removable vehicle window system,” which could revolutionize how drivers adjust their vehicles for open-air travel.
The Purpose of Removable Car Windows
In the application, Stellantis points out that while hardtops like those on the Jeep Wrangler are a popular feature, they can often be heavy and cumbersome to remove. As an alternative, the company suggests that removable car windows could offer a more convenient solution for increasing airflow into the vehicle without requiring the entire roof to be taken off. This would give drivers an option for greater flexibility when they don’t want to commit to full roof removal.
The patent particularly emphasizes the rear and quarter windows, which are typically fixed and cannot be lowered. By making these windows removable, Stellantis aims to enhance the open-air driving experience, allowing drivers to lower the side windows or take off the doors for a more exhilarating ride. This idea fits perfectly with Jeep’s reputation for providing vehicles tailored for outdoor enthusiasts.
How Removable Car Windows Would Work
According to the patent, the removable car windows would be equipped with a series of latch mechanisms that can be easily operated by the driver. Each latch would feature a knob that, when turned, releases the retaining clips securing the window in place. This design allows for a quick and simple removal process, making it user-friendly for anyone who wants to switch between closed and open-air driving on the go.
This tool-free approach would make it more convenient for Jeep owners to adjust their vehicle’s setup based on their preferences and the weather conditions, without needing extra equipment or assistance. It’s a smart design solution for those who value both flexibility and convenience.
The Patent Imagery and Possible Vehicles:
While removable car windows seem like a natural fit for the Jeep Wrangler—one of the most adaptable and off-road capable vehicles on the market—Stellantis has not yet confirmed which specific models might feature this innovation if it makes it to production. However, images included in the patent show a vehicle similar to the 2022 Jeep Recon EV with rear quarter windows open, suggesting that this model could be a strong candidate for the new feature.
The Jeep Recon was first introduced as part of Jeep’s move into the electric vehicle (EV) market, and it’s expected to launch in the U.S. by 2024. Since its initial reveal, details about the Recon have been scarce, but this new patent could indicate that the model may come equipped with these removable windows, adding a fresh twist to the EV’s design.
Jeep’s Future with Removable Car Windows
If Stellantis moves forward with this innovative window system, it could mark a new era for Jeep’s approach to open-air driving. The brand has long been synonymous with outdoor adventure, and the introduction of removable car windows would further enhance Jeep’s reputation as a leader in offering customizable, adventure-ready vehicles.
In addition to the Recon, Jeep’s transition into electric vehicles will be led by the Wagoneer S, which is set to arrive in showrooms later this year. As Jeep ushers in a new generation of electrified models, features like removable windows could become a defining trait that blends modern design with Jeep’s rugged heritage.
By offering this feature, Stellantis is giving drivers even more control over how they experience their vehicles. Whether it’s the Wrangler, the Recon, or another future model, removable car windows could become an exciting option for those looking to enjoy the outdoors from the driver’s seat without compromising on convenience or performance.
