Ford's new electric Bronco New Energy is powerful, technologically advanced and ready for adventure – but only available in China. Why is Ford teasing us with this electric stallion?
Imagine Ford Bronco, an icon of ruggedness that promises freedom on the open road and dirt tracks. Now add electric power, Chinese technological wizardry and a pinch of irony. You get the Ford Bronco EV – or rather Ford Bronco New Energy – purebred electric SUV, which is unfortunately reserved exclusively for the Chinese market. This car is like a Hollywood thriller: exciting, but with a bittersweet aftertaste, because we Europeans and Americans will not be able to drive it.
Powerful electric SUV
Developed in partnership with Jiangling Motors (JMC) and powered by batteries from Chinese giant BYD, the Ford Bronco New Energy comes in two versions: a pure electric (EV) and an extended-range version (EREV). This electric SUV combines the rugged aesthetics of the Bronco with advanced technology, but Ford has decided to make this model available only in China. Why? Perhaps because the Chinese market is saturated with electric vehicles, where Ford has to compete with domestic giants like BYD.
Ford Bronco EV: Dimensions that dominate the road
The Bronco New Energy is a real behemoth. At 5,004 mm (197.0 in) long, 1,956 mm (77.0 in) wide and with a wheelbase of 2,949 mm (116.1 in), it's closer to the three-row Kia EV9 than the smaller Bronco Sport, which measures just 4,387 mm (172.7 in) long. Weight is also impressive: the pure EV weighs 2,631 kg (5,800 lb), while the EREV version weighs 2,511 kg (5,535 lb). By comparison, the Bronco Raptor weighs in at 2,243 kg (4,945 lb), making it a real heavyweight.
Electric power and impressive range
The pure electric version of the Bronco New Energy is powered by a 105.4 kWh battery pack, which powers the two motors with 200 kW (271 hp) of power and achieves a range of 650 km (404 miles) on the Chinese CLTC cycle. Top speed is limited to 170 km/h (105.6 mph), which is enough for comfortable cruising. The extended range version (EREV) combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine as a range extender with a 43.7 kWh battery pack, providing 178 kW (241 hp) and an electric range of 220 km (137 miles). The total range of this version reaches an impressive 1,220 km (758 miles), ideal for long Chinese routes. Both models have all-wheel drive with electric motors on the front (130 kW for the EV, 180 kW for the EREV).
Ford Bronco EV: Design that respects heritage
The Bronco New Energy, or Ford Bronco EV, is an aesthetic homage to its name. With a robust rectangular shape, the inscription Bronco It's reminiscent of classic SUVs with its grille and spare wheel on the rear doors. But modern features like a lidar sensor on the roof and a side-opening tailgate bring it into the 21st century. Unlike the classic Bronco, which is based on a ladder frame, this model uses a unibody platform, which brings it closer to crossovers while still maintaining its off-road spirit.
Technology for the Future: Ford Bronco EV
The batteries supplied by BYD are lithium iron phosphate (LFP), known for their durability and safety. While charging speed data was not disclosed, we can expect Ford to leverage BYD’s technology for competitive charging times. Lidar and advanced ADAS systems suggest the Bronco New Energy is ready for autonomous driving, a feature that is increasingly sought after in China.
Heritage Bronze in a new guise
The Ford Bronco has been a symbol of adventure and freedom since 1966. From desert racing to city streets, the Bronco has always promised an indomitable spirit. With the Ford Bronco EV – Bronco New Energy Ford is continuing that legacy, but with an electric twist tailored to the Chinese market. Ironically, it's in a place where electric cars are dominating the scene that the Bronco is getting its zero-emissions version.
Why only China?
The Chinese market is the epicenter of the electric revolution, with domestic manufacturers like BYD setting the standard. Ford has clearly decided to win over Chinese buyers looking for a rugged yet eco-friendly SUV with the Bronco New Energy. But why not Europe or America? Perhaps because Ford knows that the West still swears by gasoline V6s, or perhaps it's a strategic move to compete in China with local production. Either way, it seems as if Ford is saying: “This is our electric miracle, but it is not for you.”
Conclusion: Dreams that remain in the Far East
The Ford Bronco New Energy / Ford Bronco EV is an electric SUV that combines ruggedness, technology and impressive range. With 650 km (404 miles) of range in the pure EV model and an impressive 1,220 km (758 miles) of combined range in the EREV version, it’s ready to take on anything – from city streets to long-distance road trips. Lidar, BYD batteries and a rugged design make it one of the best electric SUVs. But for Europeans and Americans, it remains out of reach – like a gem to be admired only from afar. With an estimated price tag of between €38,000 and €50,000 (CNY 300,000–400,000, USD 42,000–55,000), it’s competitive, but the question remains: Will Ford ever bring this electric beast to the West? Until then, we can only dream of adventures in the zero-emission Bronco. Mighty beast, they say in China – and it's true.
