Ford has launched fully electric and EREV versions of the Bronco for the Chinese market only. Expect AWD, 650 km range, and lidar—but no U.S. release.
The legendary Ford Bronco—a name synonymous with American off-road adventure—has taken an unexpected leap into the electric era. But if you’re a Bronco diehard dreaming of silent, zero-emission treks through North America’s wilds, here’s the curveball: the very first all-electric Bronco will debut not in the U.S., but in China.
The Chinese Debut: A New Direction
Ford’s electric Bronco is launching exclusively in China later this year, the result of Ford’s collaboration with its Chinese joint venture partner, Jiangling Motors (JMC). Through this partnership and local Chinese government filings, the details of two distinct electric Bronco versions have surfaced:
- All-Electric Ford Bronco (EV)
- Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) Bronco
Powertrains and Technology Highlights
Bronco EV: Pure Electric Power
- Motors: Dual electric motors—130 kW front, 202 kW rear—for a combined 232 kW (311 horsepower).
- Drivetrain: All-wheel-drive as standard.
- Battery: 105.4 kWh LFP “Blade” battery from BYD, renowned for safety and endurance.
- Range: Claimed 404 miles (650 km) on China’s CLTC testing cycle.
- Top Speed: Electronically capped at 106 mph.
Bronco EREV: Go the Distance
- Motors: Same dual-motor AWD system as the pure EV.
- Battery: 43.7 kWh.
- Range (Electric-Only): 137 miles (220 km).
- Range (Total): Up to 758 miles (1,220 km), courtesy of a 1.5-liter gasoline engine functioning solely as a generator—never powering the wheels directly.
Dimensions & Features
- Size: 197.8 in (length) × 77.2 in (width) × 71.5 in (height)
- Weight: 5,798 lbs (EV) / 5,534 lbs (EREV)
- Seating: Five seats for both variants
- Tech: Lidar sensor on the roof for likely semi-autonomous driving capabilities
Strategic Choices & Market Positioning
Ford’s move taps into China’s dynamic EV market by leveraging:
- Local manufacturing with JMC
- Cutting-edge BYD battery technology
- Adaptation to local market demands (long range, advanced driver-assist systems)
What About the U.S. Market?
As of now, Ford has not announced any plans to bring the electric Bronco—or its range-extended sibling—to other regions. The U.S. and other markets await word on whether this iconic electric off-roader will hit their shores.
Feature | Bronco EV (China) | Bronco EREV (China) |
---|---|---|
Powertrain | Dual electric motors (AWD) | Dual electric motors (AWD) |
Battery Capacity | 105.4 kWh LFP Blade | 43.7 kWh |
Range (CLTC) | 404 miles | 137 miles (EV), 758 miles (total) |
Gasoline Engine | None | 1.5L (generator only) |
Top Speed | 106 mph | 106 mph |
Vehicle Weight | 5,798 lbs | 5,534 lbs |
Launch Market | China | China |
Notable Feature | Lidar, semi-autonomous features | Extended range capability |
Why This Matters
The launch of an electric Bronco—especially one not sold in its home market—signals a new era not just for Ford, but for how American automotive icons adapt globally. With top-tier EV tech and a China-first strategy, Ford is chasing new trailheads—but for now, American fans must watch from afar.