Ford Said to Weigh Return of Bronco, Ranger Output to U.S. - Bloomberg
Ford Motor Co. is considering a revival of the Bronco sport utility vehicle and Ranger small pickup in the U. S. , where truck demand is booming, said a person familiar with company’s plans. The two models would be built at a Wayne, Michigan, factory that now makes small cars, said the person, who asked not to be identified discussing product plans. The return of the Ranger and Bronco, which drew unwelcome renown as O. J. Simpson’s getaway car two decades ago, gives Ford key models to compete with offerings by Toyota Motor Corp. and General Motors Co. The Bronco would also bring back an iconic name that has struck a chord with young buyers despite being out of production for almost 20 years. “It’s a good move,” John Wolkonowicz, a Boston-based independent analyst, said of reviving the SUV. Mid-Sized SUV The new Bronco will be a mid-sized SUV, like the Explorer, the person said. “The only way this makes sense is if it is more rugged and likely targeted at Jeep,” said Jeff Schuster, an analyst at consultant LMC Automotive in Southfield, Michigan. Ford made its last Bronco in 1996 and ended Ranger production in 2011. The Ranger may also find new buyers for the Dearborn, Michigan-based company, Wolkonowicz said. Source: www.bloomberg.com
