The Ford Bronco has gained immense popularity in the American and European markets, but it hasn’t gone unnoticed by Chinese manufacturers. In an effort to prevent copycat vehicles from emerging in overseas markets, Ford has devised a unique strategy. The company plans to introduce the Bronco in China, partnering with local manufacturer Jiangling Ford for production. This not only helps deter imitation vehicles but also makes the Bronco more affordable for Chinese buyers. In this article, we will delve into the details of this strategy and explore the differences between the Chinese Ford Bronco and its American and European counterparts.
The Chinese Ford Bronco: Minimal Exterior Differences
The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has leaked four images of the Chinese Ford Bronco, giving us a glimpse of its design. From these images, it is apparent that the differences between the Chinese version and the American or European model are minimal. The Chinese Ford Bronco measures between 4.80 and 4.82 meters in length, 2.07 meters in width, and 1.99 meters in height, with a wheelbase of 2.95 meters. While the width remains the same, there are slight variations in length and height, possibly due to differences in wheels and wheel arches. The MIIT images reveal a four-door Bronco with two types of tires, bumpers, and fenders, suggesting that these features may vary based on the chosen finish. Notable exterior modifications include the placement of the Ford name on the grille above the Bronco designation and Chinese lettering on the tailgate.
The Powertrain of the Chinese Ford Bronco: A Familiar Engine
Car News China reports that the Chinese Ford Bronco will be equipped with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine manufactured by Changan Ford. This engine generates 270 horsepower and a maximum torque of 455 Nm. It is worth noting that the power output of the Chinese Bronco matches that of the entry-level European model, but it is 30 horsepower less than its American counterpart. Additionally, instead of the 10-ratio torque converter automatic transmission found in the American version, the Chinese model will feature an eight-speed transmission. Unfortunately, there are no plans to offer a manual transmission option for the Chinese market.
The Expected Pricing: Making the Bronco More Affordable
Currently, the Ford Bronco is priced between 700,000 and 1,200,000 yuan ($97,280-$166,766) in China, depending on the exchange rate. These figures are more than double the price of the Bronco in the United States. However, with local production in collaboration with Jiangling Ford, Ford aims to significantly reduce the price of the SUV. If all goes according to plan, the Chinese-market Bronco could be priced around 300,000 yuan ($41,691), making it much more affordable for Chinese consumers. This competitive pricing will not only deter potential copycat vehicles but also attract a larger customer base in China.
Conclusion
Ford’s strategy to prevent copycat vehicles in China by introducing the Ford Bronco in collaboration with Jiangling Ford is a smart move. By partnering with a local manufacturer, Ford can ensure that the Bronco is produced authentically and at a more affordable price point. The minimal exterior differences between the Chinese version and the American or European models suggest that Chinese buyers will be getting a vehicle that closely resembles the original. With a powerful engine and competitive pricing, the Chinese Ford Bronco is poised to make a significant impact in the Chinese SUV market.