Many recognize and love the Ford Bronco for its rugged, all-American history. However, last week Ford introduced an AEV (All-Electric Vehicle) and an EREV (Extended-Range Electric Vehicle) of its iconic SUV—exclusively for the Chinese market. The Bronco EV, officially branded as the "Bronco New Energy," made its debut this July as part of Ford’s strategic push to align with China’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle landscape. But while Bronco fans here in the States might be eager to get behind the wheel, this new model isn’t coming to U.S.—at least not anytime soon.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
Built for China, by China
The Bronco EV is the product of a joint venture between Ford and Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC), a partnership officially named Jiangling Ford Automobile Technology (J-Ford). Formed in 2022, the joint venture was established to accelerate the development of passenger vehicles tailored specifically for the Chinese market, including EVs and plug-in hybrids.
Unlike the Bronco made in America, which is built at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, this version is engineered and assembled entirely in China. The goal is to deliver a product that meets the tastes, tech expectations, and regulatory standards of Chinese consumers—who are, by all accounts, leading the world in EV adoption.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
Powertrain and Performance
The fully electric Bronco New Energy AEV (All-Electric Vehicle) delivers serious off-road capability with zero tailpipe emissions. It’s equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system—130 kW up front and 202 kW at the rear—for a combined output of 332 kW (approximately 445 horsepower) and 457 lb-ft of torque. Power comes from a 105.4 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, enabling a range of up to 403 miles. The AEV supports both AC and DC fast charging and is built to handle rugged terrain while offering modern electric performance.
The EREV (Extended-Range Electric Vehicle) version of the Bronco New Energy features the same dual-motor powertrain, delivering 332 kW (445 horsepower) and 457 lb-ft of torque, along with the same 105.4 kWh LFP battery. It adds a 1.5L gasoline engine that serves exclusively as a generator, charging the battery when external power sources aren’t available. This setup provides a total driving range of up to 758 miles on a full charge and full tank. With its extended range and the flexibility to recharge on the go, the EREV is well-equipped for remote travel or long-distance trips where charging infrastructure may be limited.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
Body-on-Frame, Electrified
One of the noteworthy features of this vehicle is its body-on-frame platform, a design rarely seen in electric SUVs. With this setup, the Bronco EV promises the same rugged durability and off-road capability the nameplate is known for—at least in theory.
Ford hasn’t released full suspension specs yet, but photos and early test footage suggest the vehicle will be trail-capable with significant ground clearance, aggressive approach and departure angles, and independent suspension tuned for a mix of city and off-road driving. Whether it lives up to the U.S. Bronco's G.O.A.T ("Goes Over Any Type of Terrain") status remains to be seen.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
Exterior and Interior: Familiar Yet Different
Visually, the Bronco New Energy is immediately recognizable as a Bronco—boxy stance, bold fenders, upright windshield, and signature round headlights. Though its overall shape draws comparisons to the Bronco Sport, this EV stands apart with a full-size spare tire mounted on the rear, reinforcing its connection to the larger Bronco family. That said, Bronco enthusiasts will spot key differences. The grille is reshaped with illuminated Bronco lettering. The front bumper features smoother curves compared to the more rugged, angular design of the U.S. Bronco. The New Energy also includes a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor for advanced driver assistance, a feature that is not included on the U.S. model. Plus, its roof rails have a sleek, integrated look.
The interior leans more toward tech-forward comfort than functional, off-road practicality. Dual 12.3-inch screens span across the dashboard—one for the gauge cluster, the other for infotainment—and the cabin accents and layout reflect Chinese consumer preferences for premium finishes, digital interfaces, and ambient lighting. Reports suggest the vehicle is also equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Ford’s BlueCruise (rebranded for China). Official interior photos haven’t been released yet, so some design details may still evolve before production.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
Not Coming to America
One important factor to consider is the limited market availability. Ford has confirmed that this Bronco EV will be sold exclusively in China. Developed through Ford’s joint venture with Jiangling Motors, the Bronco New Energy is tailored specifically for the Chinese market and is not planned for export to other regions, including the U.S. This approach allows Ford to offer an electrified Bronco variant that meets the unique demands and regulations of China while maintaining separate strategies for other markets.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
What It Means for the Bronco Brand
Even if the Bronco EV never touches U.S. soil, its existence says a lot about where the Bronco brand is heading. In less than five years, the Bronco has grown from its 6th generation revival in 2021 to a global sub-brand in 2025—one that now includes two-door and four-door body styles, a smaller crossover-based Bronco Sport, the high-performance Bronco Raptor, and now an international EV offering.
It’s also a great example of how Ford Motor Company is managing its transition to electric markets—not by simply converting older models to electric, but by forming localized partnerships that allow for faster, more targeted vehicle development.
Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company
Final Thoughts
For now, the Bronco New Energy is a China-only adventure on wheels. But for those who follow the Bronco world closely, its debut is still noteworthy. It proves that the Bronco name has global appeal, enough to create different models for markets beyond the U.S.
As electrification continues to shape the auto landscape, more surprises like this are likely. Whether or not this version ever inspires a North American counterpart, Bronco Nation will be watching and keeping you up to date!
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