UPDATE: It appears this endeavor didn’t work out.
Merlin reported on a NEW CJ-5 that will go into production (approx 5,000 jeeps per year) soon. One question that many folks have asked is how the new jeep can meet the current safety specs for new cars. According to Merlin, the short answer is it can’t, but it doesn’t have to meet them. In 2014 the feds passed regulations that allow low production auto manufacturers to only have to meet the specs for 1967.
“With Sema going on I am excited to finally announce the return of an old favorite, the Cj5. Universal Motors Corp (makers of the Allied Jeep L head blocks) has the new Mopar licensed Cj5 on display in booth 32326 at Sema. These sport the current Jeep engine, and there will be a diesel option as well. Bodies and parts will be manufactured by UMC, not bought from current parts and panel manufacturers other than Jeep. A kit version will be available as well. Assembly is done in Detroit. More info and pics will be posted as I receive more. http://universalmotorscorp.com/”