Ford is developing a large electric Bronco—but not for the U.S. market.

      Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Ford

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      While Ford is reducing its focus on electric vehicles (EVs) in the United States, it is intensifying efforts in other markets. One noteworthy development is the growing interest in when Ford will electrify the Bronco, specifically for the Chinese market, where the timeline is looking like “soon.” Insights from a filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology suggest that the new SUV resembles a larger version of the Bronco Sport from the future.

      Reports about the electric Bronco intended for China began circulating on Wednesday from various sources, including auto expert Tycho de Feijter. Before delving into specifics, it's crucial to highlight the considerable size of this SUV, which can be difficult to gauge from images alone. Measuring approximately 198 inches long, this Bronco is about nine inches longer than a gas-powered four-door and more than two feet longer than a Sport model. Additionally, it has a broader stance than all U.S. models except the expanded Wildtrak, weighing around 5,800 pounds.

      This information pertains to the fully electric version; there will also be an extended-range EV variant in China that weighs over 5,500 pounds, adding an interesting twist.

      The design is certainly identifiable as a Bronco from the back, but it doesn’t exhibit the ruggedness of the traditional model nor the toy-like appearance of the Sport. It occupies a middle ground and appears more contemporary than both.

      The fully electric version is reported to utilize a 105.4-kWh battery, estimated to provide a range of 404 miles. (This number should be viewed cautiously, as China’s testing standards tend to yield more optimistic range figures compared to the EPA’s.) The extended-range EV is expected to pair a 43.7-kWh battery with a 1.5-liter engine, achieving a combined range of 758 miles on a full battery and fuel tank, or 137 miles using electric power alone. Tycho indicates that all-wheel drive will be available along with impressive power outputs, although some reports suggest it may be front-wheel drive only, so further clarification is needed.

      This exclusive Bronco for China will be produced in partnership with Jiangling Motors, with batteries supplied by BYD. According to Carscoops, it may be marketed as the “Bronco New Energy;” however, this name hasn’t been widely verified. It is likely that Ford will use a distinct name since the standard Bronco is already available in China.

      As for Ford's progress in the U.S., the company has faced setbacks recently, including delays in the F-150 Lightning's successor and the cancellation of a large electric SUV under development. While this SUV is not related to the China Bronco, it raises questions about how similar it might have been and the feasibility of such a vehicle in the U.S. The Mustang Mach-E is now in its fifth production year; although it was a solid initial endeavor, a larger, more rugged electric SUV that includes a gas engine option to alleviate range concerns could resonate better with American consumers.

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