The Ford-JMC joint enterprise in China has launched a local version of the Blue Oval’s Bronco SUV. Although it somewhat resembles its U.S. cousin on the outside, it’s a largely different vehicle coming to showrooms in AWD battery-electric and hybrid flavors. The five trims announced so far range from 229,800 to 282,800 Yuan ($32,330–39,790).
Coming in at 5,025 mm (196.3 inches) long, 1,960 mm (76.6 inches) wide and 1,825 mm (71.3 inches) tall with 2,950 mm (115.2 inches) between the axles, the China-spec Ford Bronco is the largest SUV to ever wear that name. It commands 220 mm (8.6 inches) of ground clearance and has an approach angle of 30 degrees, lagging behind the U.S. Bronco’s 35.5 degrees. The departure angle is quite solid at 32 degrees, up from the American version’s 29.8.
The only electric version available thus far features a 175-PS (173-hp / 129-kW) motor at the front and a 275-PS (271-hp / 202-kW) one at the back. A 105.4-kWh battery supplies enough power for 650 km (404 miles) of range under optimal conditions.
The plug-in hybrid alternative retains the same front e-motor as above while using an engine with 245 PS (242 hp / 180 kW) for the rear end. It makes do with a smaller 43.7-kWh battery pack rated at 220 km (136 miles) in all-electric mode and 1,220 km (758 miles) in hybrid mode. The company claims that this version of the Bronco comes with multiple different torque control systems designed to maximize its off-road abilities.
Depending on the trim, the SUV can ship with an infotainment system running on a Snapdragon 8255 chipset, a 15.6-inch central touchscreen and as many as 21 audio speakers. Further options include a 70-inch projected HUD, panoramic roof and a thermal box capable of maintaining temperatures from –6º to +50º Celsius.
In an earlier communication, Ford and JMC confirmed that this particular version of the iconic American off-roader was designed from the ground up for the Chinese domestic market. As such, there are no export plans whatsoever.
