By Shawn Henry 
Stellantis has secured a new U.S. patent for an in-vehicle drone docking station, a design that traces its roots to a 2021 Jeep teaser campaign and signals the automaker’s interest in merging off-road adventure with aerial technology.
The patent, recently published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, outlines a system that would allow a drone to launch, land, recharge, and store safely within a vehicle. Renderings show a docking station integrated into the roof or rear cargo area, with an enclosure to protect the drone from dust, water, and impact during rugged use.
Jeep first hinted at the idea four years ago with a promotional video showcasing a Wrangler concept equipped with a drone. At the time, it seemed like marketing fantasy. Now, Stellantis’ intellectual property filing suggests the concept is edging closer to production feasibility, at least as an option for future models.
The technology could offer practical applications for Jeep owners, from scouting trails and filming off-road excursions to enhancing safety in remote environments by surveying terrain ahead. The patent also describes a user interface within the cabin, allowing drivers to control or monitor drone activity in real time.
Automakers across the industry have explored drone integration in recent years, but none have yet delivered a fully commercialized system. Stellantis’ filing sets the company apart as it continues to experiment with blending its rugged brand identity with emerging technology.
The automaker has not announced production plans, and patents do not guarantee market release. Still, the development underscores Stellantis’ ongoing push to differentiate Jeep in a competitive SUV market by tying its adventurous image to futuristic tools.
Steven Symes