After making its first appearance at the Chengdu Auto Show, Ford has now officially opened the order books for the Bronco Smart Horse, also called the Bronco Basecamp. This marks the third member of the Bronco lineup designed exclusively for the Chinese market, highlighting Ford’s strategy of tailoring vehicles to local tastes. While the introduction of another China-only Bronco might not sound groundbreaking on its own, the automaker is adding a unique incentive for early adopters. Customers who place an order will receive a complimentary “one-click roof-lift camping package,” a feature aimed squarely at outdoor enthusiasts.
Despite its somewhat whimsical name, the package does not include a tent. Instead, it equips the Basecamp with a panoramic glass roof that rises 360 millimeters upward, creating extra headroom for second-row passengers. This is designed to add comfort and flexibility, especially when combined with the interior’s clever folding features. The front seats can recline fully flat, with headrests that tuck down at the touch of a button, while the second-row seats also fold to create a larger surface. To complement this setup, Ford offers a Bronco-branded inflatable mattress that stretches across both rows, turning the SUV into a makeshift camper.
The camping theme extends to the rear of the vehicle as well. Mounted on the tailgate is what Ford calls a “mountain kitchen.” This compact outdoor unit includes a fold-down table for preparing meals, a magnetic strip to hold knives and utensils, a cupholder, and even a built-in bottle opener. Though unconventional, Ford is leaning into the concept, billing the Basecamp as its “first all-terrain camping SUV.” To further entice buyers, the company promises roughly $1,685 worth of free gear for anyone who secures a vehicle with a $140 deposit.
Performance-wise, Ford has revealed two electrified options for the Bronco Basecamp. The fully electric version comes with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, producing an impressive 445 horsepower. Power is supplied by a 105.4 kWh battery pack, which delivers a driving range of up to 650 kilometers on a single charge. For buyers seeking extended flexibility, there is also a range-extended hybrid model. This configuration combines a turbocharged 1.5-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 43.7 kWh battery. It produces 416 horsepower and allows for 220 kilometers of electric-only range, while the combustion engine extends total range to an impressive 1,220 kilometers under the CLTC cycle.
Dimensionally, the Basecamp stands closer to a full-size SUV than a compact crossover. Its 2,950 mm wheelbase matches that of the U.S.-market four-door Bronco, while its overall length of 5,025 mm makes it even longer than the Bronco’s 4,810 mm and significantly larger than the Bronco Sport at 4,400 mm.
For now, Ford has confirmed that the Bronco Smart Horse / Basecamp will remain exclusive to China, with no immediate plans to launch the electrified camping SUV in North America.