Ford Plans to Launch Electric and Extended-Range Bronco SUV in China

Ford Motor Company plans to introduce a fully electric and an extended-range version of the Bronco SUV in China, expanding its electric vehicle lineup in the country. Ford China announced that these two Bronco models will be available for sale in the fourth quarter. The electrified Bronco marks a new era for Ford, being the first new model produced in collaboration with Jiangling Motors in Nanchang, China. Documents filed with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology show that the Bronco new energy version will come in two variants: a fully electric version and another that features a gasoline-powered range extender. The new Bronco appears similar to an upgraded Bronco Sport, but with larger dimensions. The all-electric Bronco will be equipped with a dual-motor system, with a front motor producing 130 kW and a rear motor producing 202 kW, achieving all-wheel drive performance with a total output of 271 horsepower. The power battery will be a 105.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate blade battery provided by BYD's Fudi Battery, with the vehicle weighing approximately 2630 kg (5,800 lbs) and offering a range of up to 650 km (400 miles) on a single charge. The extended-range Bronco features a hybrid power system with 241 horsepower, offering slightly compromised performance but an impressive overall range of 1220 km (758 miles). Compared to the fully electric version, its battery capacity is reduced to 43.7 kWh, matched with a dual-motor drive system with 130 kW at the front axle and 180 kW at the rear axle. This model includes a 1.5-liter range extender engine that charges the battery, enabling the extended range. Despite the additional engine and fuel, the vehicle's curb weight is controlled at 2510 kg (5,535 lbs), more than 100 kg lighter than the electric version. Ford China stated that both models are equipped with lidar and over 30 high-precision sensors and cameras for advanced driver assistance functions. While Ford China has not disclosed pricing details for the two models, it is certain that they will be slightly more expensive than the gasoline version of the Bronco produced by Jiangling Ford, which starts at 300,000 yuan. Producing a dedicated electric Bronco for the Chinese market is a wise decision for Ford. The reasons include: firstly, China's acceptance of electric vehicles is the highest in the world. According to a report by the Harvard Business Review, China is the largest electric vehicle market globally, making it an optimal entry point for Ford. Secondly, the cost advantages of manufacturing cars locally in China are significant, greatly reducing production costs compared to imported U.S. models.