The Ford Bronco has only been revived for four years now, and already people are demanding for an electrified version. And why not? It seems to be the route for every other brand’s classic models, including Ford’s. But while American enthusiasts continue waiting for battery power to meet their beloved off-roader, Ford has quietly delivered exactly that — just not where you’d expect.
Enter the Bronco New Energy, an all-electric (and plug-in hybrid) version that’s heading exclusively to the Chinese market. It’s a move that stings a bit, especially when you consider this thing looks absolutely stellar.
Heritage Meets High-Tech
Ford’s decision to electrify the Bronco makes perfect sense when you trace the nameplate’s history. Since Donald N. Frey conceived the original in 1966 as America’s first true “sports-utility vehicle,” the Bronco has always been about pushing boundaries. The first-gen model earned legendary status by conquering the Baja 1000 in 1969 (a feat no other production 4×4 has matched). Through five generations, it maintained that pioneering spirit until production ended in 1996. When Ford brought it back in 2021 after a 25-year hiatus, they reignited that same adventurous ethos. And the New Energy feels like the natural next chapter.
Two Flavors of Future
For this new release, there are two powertrain options. The pure EV variant packs a substantial 105.4-kWh battery that Ford claims delivers 404 miles of range (though that’s on China’s generous CLTC cycle). Meanwhile, the extended-range model combines a 43.7-kWh battery with a 1.5-liter range-extender engine, promising 137 miles of electric-only driving and up to 758 miles total. Both powertrains feed into what appears to be front-wheel-drive architecture. This is a curious choice for something wearing Bronco badges, though we’re hoping all-wheel drive is standard despite the lack of confirmation.
Power figures sit at 271hp for the EV and 241hp for the range-extender, which is just fine. After all, Broncos have never been about straight-line speed (okay, maybe once).
The New Energy measures 197.8″ long with a 116.1-inch wheelbase, which is identical to the four-door Bronco sold here in the U.S. but considerably larger than the Bronco Sport model it most closely resembles. At 5,800lbs for the EV and 5,535lbs for the EREV, it’s expectedly (and substantially) heavier than either American counterpart, but that just comes with the territory.
Design That Delivers
Visually, the New Energy balances the Bronco Sport’s compact proportions and the full-size model’s rugged details. You get the signature boxy silhouette, prominent grille badging, and that essential rear-mounted spare tire that screams serious off-road intent. Flush door handles hint at aerodynamic efficiency, while chunky all-terrain tires suggest Ford hasn’t forgotten this thing needs to handle more than smooth pavement. The floating roof design adds modern flair without compromising the Bronco’s utilitarian character.
Perhaps most intriguingly, there’s a lidar sensor mounted up top alongside 30+ additional sensors and cameras. This level of tech integration feels like a preview of where the entire Bronco lineup might be heading, assuming Ford eventually brings electrification stateside.
Spec Sheet
Model: Ford Bronco New Energy (EV/EREV)
Power: 271hp (EV) / 241hp (EREV)
Battery: 105.4 kWh (EV) / 43.7 kWh (EREV)
Range: 404 miles (EV) / 137 miles electric + 758 miles total (EREV)
Wheelbase: 116.1″
Weight: 5,800 lbs (EV) / 5,535 lbs (EREV)
Drive: FWD (likely AWD available)
Pricing & Availability
Here’s where things get frustrating for American buyers. The New Energy will launch in China during late 2025 through Ford’s joint venture with Jiangling Motors, with pricing estimated between $42,000 and $56,000. That positions it squarely against the regular Bronco rather than the more affordable Sport. Ford has made no mention of U.S. availability, though the company has previously hinted at hybrid Bronco variants for the American market. The timing feels particularly pointed given China’s massive EV adoption and the current administration’s tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles. Even if Ford wanted to import these, the economics probably wouldn’t work.
Recap
Ford Bronco New Energy EV
Ford finally makes an all-electric Bronco, and with two powertrain options. However, it will only be available in China.
