Ford has recently unveiled the Bronco New Energy, marking the brand’s first all-electric and range‑extender Bronco variant. But here’s the twist—it’s being sold exclusively in China, built through Ford’s joint venture with Jiangling Motors (JMC). While the rest of the world eagerly awaits the arrival of a fully electric Bronco, currently Americans must settle for hybrid hopes. Let’s explore why this move matters—and what it means for the future of adventure vehicles.
2. A Bold Stand‑Alone SUV, Not a Conversion
Unlike the ladder‑frame American Bronco, the Bronco New Energy is a unibody SUV closer in size to the Bronco Sport and even the Kia EV9. Here are its key dimensions:
- Length: 5,025 mm (≈197 in)
- Width: 1,960 mm (77 in)
- Height: 1,815 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,950 mm (116 in)
- Weight: approx. 2,630 kg (EV) / 2,510 kg (EREV).
These generous proportions offer a spacious interior and better on‑road stability, while staying true to the rugged Bronco aesthetic with upright glasshouse, round‑cut headlights beneath a horizontal LED bar, flush handles, and a swing‑out tailgate with a rear spare tire.
3. Dual Powertrain Strategy: EV and EREV
The Bronco New Energy is available in two distinct electric configurations:
🛻 EV Model
- Powertrain: Dual electric motors – front motor 177 hp (130 kW), rear motor 270 hp (202 kW), combined ≈311 hp.
- Battery: 105.4 kWh LFP (BYD FinDreams “Blade” battery).
- Range: up to ~650 km (404 mi) CLTC – around 400 mi with WLTP.
- Top speed: 170 km/h (106 mph).
🔋 EREV (Extended Range EV) Hybrid
- Powertrain: Same front motor; rear motor reduced to ~245 hp (180 kW).
- Battery: 43.7 kWh LFP battery.
- Gas Engine: 1.5 L turbocharged petrol unit (≈150 hp) acting as a generator.
- Electric-Only Range: ≈220 km (137 mi).
- Total Range: Up to 1,220 km (758 mi) combined.
Ford’s EREV powertrain offers the reassurance of electric driving with petrol support for long journeys—ideal for markets with limited charging.
4. Tech & Features: Built for the Future
Autonomous-Style ADAS
Mounted above the windshield sits a LiDAR sensor, partnering with over 30 sensors and cameras for advanced driver-assistance—suggesting Level 2+ autonomy or urban autopilot.
Utility-Forward Interior
Though interior images are limited, MIIT filings hint at a configurable “smart cockpit” designed for diverse scenarios—from camping to pet transport.
5. Why It’s China‑Only… For Now
Ford aims to bolster its footprint in China’s EV-hungry market, leveraging both government partnerships and local battery tech like BYD LFP. That specialized strategy makes the New Energy Bronco ideal for urban savvy, long‑range consumers in China—but Ford has left the door open for expansion to other regions like Australia and New Zealand.
6. Global Significance: What It Signals
- Electrification Path: The New Energy concept may preview electrified Broncos for the U.S., possibly a hybrid or EV in the next refresh cycle.
- Tech Leadership: Embracing LiDAR and long-range-capable powertrains shows Ford’s intent to compete with top-tier EV brands.
- EREV Resurgence: A high-capacity hybrid with genuine electric range may fight range anxiety better than plug-in hybrids.
7. U.S. vs China Bronco: A Comparative Snapshot
| Feature | U.S. Bronco (Current) | Bronco New Energy (China) |
|---|---|---|
| Chassis | Body-on-frame | Unibody |
| Engine | EcoBoost I4 / V6 ICE | EV / EREV dual motors |
| Drivetrain | 4×4 | FWD or AWD electric |
| Battery | None | 43.7 kWh / 105.4 kWh |
| Electric Range | n/a | 137 mi (EREV), 404 mi (EV) |
| Tech | Basic ADAS | LiDAR + 30+ sensors |
| Market | Global (not EV) | China-only (for now) |
8. What’s Next? Will We Ever See It Elsewhere?
Green signals suggest Ford’s electrification push extends globally. Premium off-road EV models may debut in markets like North America and Europe, although it’s likely to take time. The EREV concept, in particular, could resonate in regions where charging infrastructure is still developing.
9. Conclusion: A Vision for the Bronco of Tomorrow
The Bronco New Energy proves Ford’s commitment to reimagining its iconic SUV in the electric age. Designed for spacious comfort, electric freedom, and advanced safety tech—and combined with long-distance capability—it’s a bold statement for Chinese consumers that could shape how Broncos are built worldwide.
If we are lucky, The Bronco New Energy could lay the groundwork for a future where off-road legends roam clean, agile, and adventurous—without compromise.