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Ford
Bronco Concept
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"It’s like a claw hammer in a box full of
department store, battery-operated, plastic, power tools." J Mays, Ford Motor Company group vice
president of Design
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"The original Bronco carved new trails as a rugged off-roader, but
Ford really created the SUV phenomenon with the introduction of the
Explorer in 1990," said Steve Lyons, president, Ford Division. "Since
that time, Ford has always been the clear leader in SUVs. But we will
keep looking at new ways to extend our SUV leadership. For example,
we’re introducing the Freestyle crossover for customers who are
looking for a very civilized SUV alternative. At the other extreme,
the Bronco concept shows how a small, rugged and extremely capable
off-road machine could complement our SUV lineup." . |
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The legendary Bronco is back as Ford re-explores the
origins of the sport utility vehicle in a concept making its debut at
the 2004 North American International Auto Show. The Ford Bronco
concept demonstrates the original’s authentic spirit while advancing
powertrain technologies.
At a time when sport utilities are becoming more and more civilized –
some to the point of forgetting their roots – the Bronco’s clean, raw
shape, uncluttered interior and capable chassis make it the ideal tool
for work, play or just making a statement.
Key design features reminiscent of the original Ford Bronco include
the boxy, upright roofline, short wheelbase, round headlamps and the
Bronco nameplate milled into the modern three-bar grille. A winch and
guide rollers are integrated into the lower fascia. Exterior details
include exposed door hinges, cowl vents and flared wheel wells. Unique
loop-shaped door handles are integrated into the door panels and open
with a tug.
Yet within Ford Bronco concept’s rugged design is an advanced
turbo-diesel powertrain with concept technologies that stretch the
envelope of today’s conventional propulsion modes.
"The Bronco concept showcases significant advanced powertrain
technologies, mating a 2.0-liter intercooled turbo diesel with an
efficient six-speed PowerShift™ transmission and Intelligent™
four-wheel-drive system for a powerful, sure-footed off-roader," said
Graham Hoare, director, Powertrain Advanced and Research Engineering.
"Then comes the fun part. We’ve added nitrous-oxide injection for a
burst of power at your fingertips."
Although only a concept, the Bronco demonstrates how Ford could
further complement its extensive SUV lineup that includes Escape,
Explorer, Expedition and Excursion.
The Bronco concept strikes a familiar profile of the authentic SUVs of
the late 1960s and at the same time is contemporary, appealing and
relevant for today’s market. The Bronco concept adds modern
technologies to an original theme for a fresh new approach. The
headlamps use LED and halogen light sources to cast a wider beam for
better peripheral vision in off-road situations.
The Ford name is integrated into the tailgate that swings open to the
side, allowing easy access to the rear cargo area. The taillamps are
rectangular and feature LED lights in a cascaded array. Bronco sits on
LT 265/70R18 Goodyear all-terrain tires mounted on specially cut
18-inch, six-spoke aluminum wheels that convey the confidence to carry
it over any surface in any condition. A full-size spare tire is
mounted in the rear cargo area.
A monotone color scheme featuring a warm silver finish, coupled with
bright anodized brushed aluminum accents, flows seamlessly from the
exterior body panels to the exposed interior surfaces. The two seats
are trimmed in ginger-hued suede that looks and feels like a leather
work glove, accented with same color leather inserts and a four-line
stitching pattern often found on a rugged tool belt.
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