What To Know
- Ford is rolling out a new version of the Bronco in China called the “New Energy” Bronco.
- Unlike the Bronco we know in the US, this one is built for the Chinese market and comes with electric power.
- The engine makes 148 horsepower and likely acts as a range extender, meaning it generates electricity for the motors rather than directly powering the wheels.
Ford is rolling out a new version of the Bronco in China called the “New Energy” Bronco. Unlike the Bronco we know in the US, this one is built for the Chinese market and comes with electric power. It’s available as a fully electric vehicle (EV) or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Unfortunately, it’s unlikely these models will hit US roads anytime soon.
What’s the Electric Bronco Like?
The all-electric Bronco has two motors: one in the front with 174 horsepower and one in the back with 270 horsepower. This hefty 6,680-pound SUV can reach a top speed of 106 mph. It uses a lithium-iron-phosphate battery, but details on battery size or driving range aren’t available yet.
What About the Plug-in Hybrid?
The plug-in hybrid Bronco pairs a 1.5-liter gas engine with two electric motors. The engine makes 148 horsepower and likely acts as a range extender, meaning it generates electricity for the motors rather than directly powering the wheels. The front motor has 174 horsepower, and the rear motor has 241 horsepower.
Why No US Version?
These electrified Broncos are designed for China and built through Ford’s partnership with Jiangling Motors. They’re unibody vehicles, unlike the body-on-frame Bronco sold in the US. For Ford to bring these to America, they’d need to rethink the Bronco’s design, which seems unlikely for now. However, Ford could use this tech in other US models down the line.
Where Did This Info Come From?
Ford hasn’t officially shared these details. The info comes from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) website, which lists specs for new vehicles.
Stay tuned for more updates on cool cars, even if this Bronco stays in China!