On this Throwback Thursday, let’s take a look back at one of our favorite concept builds of the Jeep® Gladiator (JT): the 2020 Gladiator Flatbill Concept. Designed with motocross enthusiasts and off-road adventurers in mind, this bold creation combined rugged performance with dirt bike-friendly features, making it a standout from Jeep’s impressive lineup of concept vehicles.
The Flatbill Concept embodied motocross culture with its unmistakable design. Its exterior featured a vented carbon-fiber hood and high-clearance fender flares, giving it a sporty and aggressive edge. A custom-designed shortened front bumper, along with a skid plate, enhanced its approach angle, enabling it to tackle challenging terrain with ease.
The truck bed was the centerpiece of the Flatbill, tailored specifically for transporting dirt bikes. It included custom wheel ramps that slid out for convenient loading and unloading, replacing the traditional tailgate for better utility. Additional custom bodywork on the lowered bed, paired with a tubular rear bumper, improved the departure angle, boosting its off-road performance.
Underneath, the Flatbill was equipped with heavy-duty hardware to handle extreme off-road conditions. Dynatrac Pro-Rock 60 front and rear axles provided exceptional strength and durability, while a 4-inch Off-Road Evolution lift kit enhanced its clearance. Jeep fitted the concept with rear bypass shocks, 20-inch wheels, and massive 40-inch tires—marking the first time such large tires were featured on a Gladiator—delivering unmatched traction and capability.
The interior of the Flatbill combined practicality with flair. Brightly bed-lined floors allowed for easy cleaning after muddy outings, and custom-trimmed seats brought a sporty and fun vibe to the cabin. The design perfectly complemented the Flatbill’s adventurous personality while keeping it functional for off-road excursions.
Powering the concept was Jeep’s reliable 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, enhanced with a Mopar cold-air intake for improved performance. The engine was paired with an 850RE 8-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth power delivery both on and off the beaten path.
The Jeep Gladiator Flatbill Concept represented an exciting exploration of what the Gladiator platform could achieve when pushed to its limits. It was a bold and creative blend of off-road performance and motocross-inspired design, proving that Jeep knows how to build vehicles that cater to the thrill-seekers among us. Even years later, the Flatbill remains one of the most memorable concept builds from the Jeep brand.
