Jeep Wrangler JL Storage Design

Through CodeFish’s discovery phase, user research confirmed that Wrangler owners prioritised maximising usable space around the vehicle. This insight led to a window-mounted configuration as a suitable solution, that was both functionally practical and visually distinctive.

Key product considerations were identified throughout the discovery and feasibility study process with the following features used to determine product design and success:

Product development, prototyping and manufacturing were achieved as part of CodeFish’s Apex service stream framework. Maintaining end-to-end ownership of the project allowed for rapid iteration and laid the groundwork for a reusable mounting system.

User research defined the opportunity and informed the mounting strategy. Early concepts were validated through rapid physical prototypes before progressing into detailed CAD development.

CodeFish led material selection and prototyping, with a strong focus on stainless steel sheet metal construction and custom injection-moulded TPV pads to provide compression and shock isolation at critical contact points.

Manufacturing was considered throughout product development. With CodeFish supporting the initial production run, developing installation documentation and packaging, and ensuring product consistency from prototype to customer delivery.

We also led the marketing research, to make sure the product was designed for the end customer.

April 2023 saw the birth of JKSM Offroad’s Window Side Mount. Providing the Australian market with a storage solution that didn’t damage their vehicle and instead enhanced their offroad experiences.

Key design features of the Window Side Mount that met international standards and improved functionality include:

• The clamp fastens beneath the roof and onto the rain gutters using custom shock-absorbing pads to manage vibration and protect the vehicle structure.
• Clamping was improved upon compared to international competitors, allowing consumers to easily tighten the system from the top instead of needing physical force to clamp it from below.
• The stainless steel mounting plate supports recovery tracks and fuel or water containers from major accessory brands including MAXTRAX, X-BULL, and RotopaX.
• The modular core mounting plate enables multiple accessory configurations and later adaptation to additional vehicle variants.
• Single-person installation was achieved with straightforward instructions for both two-door and four-door JL models.

As the brand’s first product, the Window Side Mount established expectations for durability, integration, and engineering integrity. Since then, it’s continued performance across years of off-road use validated the design approach and reinforced customer confidence.

The modular mounting architecture became a repeatable platform, accelerating development of subsequent vehicle variants and future accessories. Beyond its functional role, the mount became a recognisable visual identifier, anchoring the brand’s presence in the market.

What began as a solution to a storage constraint evolved into the technical and commercial foundation of the JKSM Offroad product range, spawning future products and further collaboration with the brand.