Ford Bronco convertible in the works
New patent shows born-again Bronco could get removable roof panel like Jeep Wrangler and GladiatorFord has been caught patenting new removable body panels that are tipped to make their debut on the forthcoming Ford Bronco.
Uncovered by Blue Oval blog, Ford Authority, the new patent application joins a recent application for removable doors, leading to speculation the US car-maker wants its new Bronco to be a direct challenger to the utilitarian Jeep Wrangler.
The latest patent, shown on the current Ford Ranger, shows a simple system of clamps that hold a hard-top in place.
The Ford fan blog says the removable roof has been designed to be removed easily by a single person – something that can't be said for the new JL Wrangler.
Evidence of the removable roof being demonstrated on a pick-up, rather than an SUV, has fuelled rumours that a double-cab Bronco-based pick-up is being readied to go head-to-head with the Jeep Gladiator ute.
On sale in late 2020, the new Ford Bronco is based on the same Australian-engineered T6 ladder frame that underpins the Ranger and Everest.
Despite this connection with Australia, Ford has already ruled out the rugged SUV (and ute) for our market.
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