FYI: Kindred Motorworks Unveils a Stunning All-Electric Ford Bronco Restomod
The All-Electric Bronco: An Enthusiastic Hint from Ford
Ford enthusiasts have been speculating about an all-electric Bronco for a while now. However, with the American automaker focusing more on smaller and budget-friendly EVs, it’s still uncertain if the iconic off-roader will get an electric version directly from Ford.
Enter Kindred Motorworks
Leave it to tuners to address the uncertainty. Kindred Motorworks, a California-based shop, recently unveiled their latest creation: an all-electric restomod Bronco. This exceptional vehicle made its debut at the Monterey Car Week celebrations and has already started turning heads.
A Legacy Continued with Modern Technology
This electrifying Bronco retains the spirit of the original models produced between 1966 and 1977. It replaces the traditional engine with an 80 kWh battery pack, dual-motor all-wheel drive, regenerative braking, and other modern conveniences like Apple CarPlay. According to Kindred Motorworks, every Bronco EV uses a genuine first-generation frame complete with the original VIN number, ensuring authenticity.
Advanced Engineering for Superior Performance
Unlike some EV conversions that repurpose Tesla batteries, the Bronco EV is powered by a modular pack from Kore Power VDA and incorporates several proprietary technologies for optimal thermal management. Kindred Motorworks avoids the "easy option" of mounting an electric motor onto a transfer case and using the existing suspension design. Instead, they have developed an entirely new suspension and motor gearbox package, eliminating the solid axles and significantly enhancing ride comfort.
Quick Charging and Practicality
The Bronco EV includes Level 3 DC fast charging capabilities, though specific details about its charging speed or range are currently unspecified. This vehicle is more of a stylish cruiser than a long-range road-tripper, but it doesn’t lack practicality.
Price and Availability
Interested buyers can reserve this unique Bronco EV today for a fully refundable $1,000 deposit. The total cost of the project stands at $250,000, which includes the donor car – a unique feature not always offered by other conversion shops.
Ford’s Dilemma?
As aftermarket specialists like Kindred Motorworks continue to innovate, it may be time for Ford to seriously consider releasing an official electric Bronco. Otherwise, these tuners may capture an enthusiastic market segment entirely.
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William Kouch
Editor, Automotive.fyi