The Ford Bronco is being rebooted. Not just by Ford, that has an all-new version on the way in 2020, but also by Zero Labs, a startup boutique builder based in Los Angeles that’s transformed the original Bronco into an electric luxury vehicle.
The truck appears much like the first generation model, and is even construct on an authentic frame. To that, the company includes carbon fiber body panels and an interior trimmed in bamboo, aluminum and premium leather.
The old engine has been superseded by a 369 hp Borg Warner electric motor running off of a 70 kilowatt-hour battery pack that’s ideal for 190 miles of range. Uncommonly, it sends power to the wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission, instead of direct drive like most electric cars use. There’s also a two-speed transfer case, locking Currie differentials adjusted inside live axles and a suspension showcasing adjustable Fox coil-over shocks for high performance off-roading.
Since there’s a lesser requirement for cooling, the grille has been superseded with a stylized panel showcasing illuminated FORD branding, though Zero Labs makes it clear this is technically a modified automobile and not a formal collaboration with the brand. There are more than 1,000 all-new parts on the truck.
The company prepares to start production in 2020 and is currently taking orders on the first run of 150 SUVs it aims to build. Exact pricing hasn’t been announced, but the website tells it will be in the $250,000-$300,000 range, which is pretty high, more than Ford’s new Bronco will cost when it goes on sale, but in line with some standard high-end Bronco restomods done by outfits such as Gateway Bronco and Icon.
Zero Labs has more electrified classics under construction and informs it will announce the next one next year.
