A New Version of the Ford Bronco Could Appear in Australia
Australia has long been in love with off-road vehicles, and models like the Ford Ranger are hugely popular there. It’s all the more surprising that the classic American Ford Bronco has never been officially sold in this market. However, the situation may change, and it won’t be the model known in the USA.
Joint Development for China and Export
Ford has introduced a new model in China called the Ford Bronco Basecamp, also known as the Bronco New Energy. This vehicle was developed jointly with the Chinese partner Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC). Its design resembles a hybrid of the full-size Bronco and the compact Bronco Sport, but its dimensions exceed both of these models.
A key feature is that this version will be produced in a right-hand drive configuration. This opens the door for export not only to Australia but also to markets in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and South America.
Different Construction and Purpose
Unlike the American Bronco, which is built on a ladder-frame chassis, the Chinese version uses a unibody construction. This means it may be less capable in extreme off-road conditions but will be more comfortable on regular roads.
This is no small detail, as the car’s length is over 5 meters, making it even longer than the Ford Everest already sold in Australia.
This change in construction points to a different target audience: buyers who want a rugged exterior but with more urban and comfortable road manners.
Electrified Powertrains
The powertrains of the newcomer are of particular interest. The fully electric Bronco Basecamp is equipped with a 105.4 kWh battery and two electric motors with a combined output of 445 hp. This is even more than the gasoline-powered Bronco Raptor.
A range-extender version is also available in China. It combines a 1.5-liter turbo engine, two electric motors, and a 43.7 kWh battery, providing an electric-only range of up to 220 kilometers.
The Model’s Future on the Global Market
It is not yet known whether Ford will offer both types of powertrains in markets like Australia or limit itself to just one. While this is not the American Bronco many Australian enthusiasts have dreamed of, the new model could become an interesting and modern alternative that combines off-road spirit with electric propulsion.
The arrival of such a car could significantly enliven the large SUV segment, offering a real choice between traditional off-roaders and more urbanized, yet environmentally cleaner models. The success of the Bronco Basecamp will depend not only on its capabilities but also on how well Ford can communicate its uniqueness to buyers accustomed to classic body-on-frame constructions.