Compact SUV, 4x4
1966 to 1977 Ford Bronco EV conversion
Preserve true four wheel drive while gaining instant torque on the trail.
- Typical range
- 130 to 210 mi
- Parts cost band
- $45k to $85k
- Labor (with pack)
- 180 to 280 h
- Curb weight (stock)
- 3,100 lb
The first generation Ford Bronco is one of the most requested electric restomods, and one of the more nuanced. Short wheelbase, solid axles, and a transfer case that owners refuse to lose all shape how you package a battery. This page explains the tradeoffs and how the RESTOVOLT Fitment Pack keeps four wheel drive intact.
Platform history
Introduced for 1966, the early Bronco was Ford's answer to the Jeep CJ and the International Scout. It came as a wagon, a half cab, and a roadster, all on a 92 inch wheelbase. Values have climbed sharply over the past decade, and many owners now want a reliable daily driver that still climbs. That combination of high vehicle value and a demanding use case is why careful engineering matters more here than on most platforms.
Conversion considerations
The key decision is whether to retain the transfer case. Our recommended approach mounts the motor to the factory transfer case through a machined adapter and a short coupler, preserving low range. This lets the Bronco crawl at very low speed with precise throttle control. Frame rails are narrow and the fuel tank area under the rear floor is the most valuable battery real estate. Underbody boxes must respect approach and departure angles, so the pack includes skid plate designs rated for trail use. Ingress protection matters: seal every enclosure to IP67 and route vents high.
Weight and packaging
A typical layout places a tall battery box in the engine bay and a flat box in the former fuel tank location, with an optional third module in the rear cargo area for wagons. Total usable capacity commonly lands between 60 and 85 kWh. Watch weight on the factory leaf springs; most builds step up spring rate by roughly 20 percent.
Range and cost bands
Expect $45,000 to $85,000 in parts. Transfer case retention, upgraded axles, and sealed enclosures push the Bronco above a C10. Labor runs 180 to 280 hours with the Fitment Pack. See the full Bronco EV conversion cost breakdown.
Recommended drivetrain combinations
Trail
Single motor 150 kW with transfer case
64 kWh salvage modules
130 to 160 mi
Overland
Single motor 220 kW with transfer case
85 kWh new modules
180 to 210 mi