Ford Bronco Sport Owner Says They’d Be All Over the Bronco EV If It Was in North America, Goes On to Say, “The Whole Vehicle Is Bigger with More Cargo”

First introduced in 1966, the Ford Bronco is an iconic off-road vehicle originally designed to compete with the Jeep CJ-5 and the International Scout. It has a very strong and dedicated off-road following, and is known for its exceptional factory-equipped capabilities like GOAT modes. GOAT (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes are selectable drive modes that adjust steering, powertrain, and 4x4 systems for different surfaces. 

The original Bronco was produced from 1966 – 1996. It was re-introduced in 2021 as a modern SUV with both two-door and four-door body styles, it stands out for its blend of nostalgic character with modern tech and off-road hardware.

News of an all-electric Bronco set social media abuzz, but then the disappointing reality that it would only be sold in China set in. On the r/BroncoSport subreddit, gsx86 summed up the mood with his post:

“I would be all over this if it was in North America. The cargo space looks like it might be a tiny bit longer too? Or maybe the whole vehicle is a bit bigger. I would love a tiny bit more cargo room in the back seat.

I’m jealous! We car camped in the BS and it was pretty comfy but to have that whole front area too would be a game changer.”

Penbrooksound added:

“The inside looks amazing. I miss the lifted roof in the back. That’s an important design element that sets the Bronco Sport apart.”

Ford Built This EV for China, Not for You

In the Chinese market, vehicles without a plug are increasingly seen as outdated. More than half of new vehicles sold are plug in hybrids or full battery electrics. Ford didn’t suddenly decide to electrify the Bronco Sport because North American buyers asked for it. They needed something far more competitive in the Chinese market, and the company responded to Chinese consumers. 

Why China Forced Ford’s Hand

China’s new car market is larger than the U.S. and Europe combined, yet Ford has struggled there. Most of its lineup relies on gas engines or mild hybrids, which puts it at a disadvantage against local brands packed with advanced EV tech. Aside from the Mustang Mach E, Ford simply did not have enough compelling new energy vehicles for Chinese buyers.

Introducing the Bronco New Energy

The Bronco New Energy is built in China through Ford’s JMC partnership and only loosely resembles the Bronco Sport sold in North America. It is significantly larger in length, width, and wheelbase, roughly the size of a Rivian R1S. This is a ground up re-engineering effort, not a simple electrification of an existing model.

Two Powertrains, One Big Shift

Buyers can choose a full battery electric version or an extended range EV. The BEV uses a 105 kWh BYD LFP battery with an estimated EPA equivalent range near 300 miles. The E REV pairs a smaller battery with a highly efficient gas engine that acts mainly as a generator, delivering smooth EV style driving with total range approaching 750 miles.

Size, Weight, and Capability

Both versions are heavy, roughly 5,500 to 5,800 pounds, yet still lighter than some electric rivals. Power figures seem modest for a vehicle with aggressive off-road styling, raising questions about final drivetrain configuration. Four-wheel drive is expected, but Ford has not confirmed full details yet.

Exterior Tech and Smart Features

Visually, the Bronco New Energy looks cleaner and more modern than the U.S. Bronco Sport. Flush door handles, a revised grille, a rear mounted spare, and a roof mounted lidar sensor signal its high-tech ambitions. Over 30 sensors support advanced driver assistance, and the interior will feature a smart cockpit with integrated off-road trip planning tools.

What This Means for the Rest of the World

The Bronco New Energy launches in China later this year, with no confirmed plans for export to North America. It is expected to be priced at roughly $32,000 USD for base EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) models, with higher trims reaching about 40,000 USD for both EREV and full EV (BEV) versions. Ford built the Bronco EV Chinese buyers demanded, not the one American enthusiasts keep asking for.

Bottom Line

The Bronco New Energy shows what Ford is capable of when it truly commits to electrification. It is bigger, smarter, and far more advanced than anything wearing a Bronco badge in the U.S. today. The real question is whether Ford will bring lessons from China home, or continue leaving this kind of innovation overseas. For the Bronco enthusiasts, Ford executives have hinted at an electric Bronco for the U.S., with CEO Jim Farley acknowledging one is potentially in the works.

What Do You Think?

If this Bronco New Energy were sold in North America at around $35,000, would you seriously consider replacing your current Bronco or Bronco Sport?

Can a heavy electric SUV still feel like a “real” Bronco off road, or does electrification change the character too much?

Chris Johnston is the author of SAE’s comprehensive book on electric vehicles, "The Arrival of The Electric Car." His coverage on Torque News focuses on electric vehicles. Chris has decades of product management experience in telematics, mobile computing, and wireless communications. Chris has a B.S. in electrical engineering from Purdue University and an MBA. He lives in Seattle. When not working, Chris enjoys restoring classic wooden boats, open water swimming, cycling and flying (as a private pilot). You can connect with Chris on LinkedIn and follow his work on X at ChrisJohnstonEV.

Photo credit: Ford media