TOLEDO (WTOL) - It’s been nearly two months since WTOL was the only station in Los Angeles bringing you coverage of the unveiling of the brand new Jeep Gladiator pickup truck.
Since then, it's generated a lot of hype, but Monday was the first day the truck was shown off locally at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
For the truck’s lead exterior designer, Taylor Langhals, it’s been an emotional few weeks.
"It all makes it worth it when I get to see someone smile when they see the new Jeep truck pull up," Langhals said.
Langhals hasn't stopped smiling from cheek-to-cheek since we saw him out west for the reveal of this truck. It's a personal point of pride. Taylor grew up in the Toledo area and much of his family still lives here. That's what made a trip back home after the unveiling so special. He brought along his blood, sweat and tears.
“It was so cool,” he said. “Like, as soon as I crossed the Ohio line, phones came out, cameras came out. I got to take it and show it to friends and family and it was a very exciting experience. Emotional, humbling. It's been great."
From a broader perspective, Jeep brand director Scott Tallon said the truck is right on pace to hit showrooms by the end of June. However, there's still no price tag.
"The early indication in demand is exceptionally strong,” Tallon said. “It's exceeded our expectations. So overwhelmingly positive and so we're just excited now to focus on getting it to market, which we'll do here in the second quarter of this year."
As for what's next, Langhals wouldn’t let up on the “secret,” suggesting the public stays tuned for any future announcement.
Hopefully it’s one worth waiting for.
