Move over Transformers: Ford Bronco can be whatever you want

As the new-generation 2021 Ford Bronco prepares to hit the road in North America, the Blue Oval brand is offering owners the ability to create the SUV of their dreams via a range of “easy customisation and endless personalisation” options.

From quick removal of body panels to an array of aftermarket accessory options, Ford says customisation of the reborn sixth-generation Bronco will be limited only by its owner’s imagination.

Of course, this does not extend to Aussie buyers, who are denied access to the Ford Bronco by virtue of the fact that it won’t be built in right-hand drive.

Still, it’s fun to imagine how’d you customise your very own Bronco, and Ford is hoping to inspire future owners with a series of how-to videos on getting the most out of the new modular design that is built in conjunction with the Australian-developed T6 platform that also underpins the Ford Ranger ute.

In announcing the customisation program, the car-maker said the new Ford Bronco – which is a sell-out in the US – can become a “wide-open rock crawler”, with tube doors and open fenders, only to transform into an “all-weather camper” the following weekend.

Not to mention the ease of other modifications, including swapping out the front grille, adding wide wheel-arch flares or wiring in some LED puddle lamps.

“Whether your goal is to build the ultimate desert racer or rock-crawling rig – or both with the same vehicle – the Bronco modular design provides the ease and confidence to create a 4x4 that is as unique as each of our customers,” said Bronco design chief Paul Wraith.

“Because of that ease and flexibility, no two Broncos should ever be alike.”

Not unlike the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator ute – the latter providing impetus for a tray-backed Ford Bronco ute that’s in development – Ford says basic modifications such as removing doors or roof panels can be done by hand in a matter of minutes.

Modular front and rear bumpers can be optioned with threaded taps to easily mount winches, safari bars and LED lights too.

“I expect a lot of Bronco owners are going to have a lot of fun engaging with the DIY aspects of the modular design because it gives them the opportunity to create the perfect 4x4 for their unique needs without requiring a lot of mechanical expertise or experience,” said Wraith.

What’s more, the Bronco’s modularity ensures that when it’s time for an update, fresh parts can be rapid-prototyped and 3D-printed, without having to change the base structure.

“Because of modularity, you can hang on to your Bronco longer and keep it fresh and up to date with new body parts, accessories and new technologies – some that can be made in low volume and others downloaded,” he said.