We’ve known for quite some time that electrified versions of the Ford Bronco are on the cards and a recent image from the off-roader’s digital instrument cluster seems to have confirmed this.
In May 2019, Ford chief executive Jim Hackett boldly stated that Ford would add “hybrid electrics” to the “new exciting Bronco”, but failed to provide specifics. A screenshot from a video detailing the gauge cluster of the Bronco that was picked up by Input shows that the future hybrid Bronco may have a dedicated all-electric driving mode.
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In the image, the digital instrument panel includes an ‘EV Coaching’ display as well as one titled ‘Eco Coach.’ These displays appear to inform drivers of when they are driving most efficiently and making use of the hybrid powertrain. Unfortunately, they don’t provide us with any in-depth details about the powertrain itself.
According to The Drive, recent reports out of Australia have suggested the next-generation Ford Ranger will be available with a hybrid powertrain, reportedly combining the company’s familiar 2.3-liter EcoBoost with an electric motor to produce a combined 362 HP and 502 lb-ft (680 Nm) of torque.
We know the 2021 Ford Bronco is being offered with the same 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers 270 HP and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm), and it stands to reason that if Ford can couple this engine with an electric motor in the Ranger, it might do the same in the Bronco as well.
Regardless of how much power the Bronco hybrid may have, it is clear that Ford is holding nothing back with the Bronco in its effort to topple the Jeep Wrangler.
Update – The video has been removed after a copyright claim by Fantasy Interactive