Earlier this week, Jeep hinted at expanding its product lineup by building a pickup truck and, according to the latest reports, the new model has officially been given the green light.

The vehicle in question is said to resemble the 2005 Jeep Gladiator concept, using the Wrangler Unlimited platform but with two-doors and a bed in the rear. Said to be headed into production in 2011, it should arrive on dealer lots in 2012.

PickupTrucks.com reports that Jeep brand CEO Mike Manley has expressed interest in the past in building a small pickup, due to their popularity throughout the world. Plus, the creation of a small pickup for the Jeep brand would certainly work with Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne’s plan to expand the Chrysler brands internationally.

Jeep hasn’t offered a pickup model since the Jeep Comanche ended production in 1992.

Source: PickupTrucks.com