​A Restomod 1974 Ford Bronco Goes Electric, But Fails to Meet Reserve at $149K Auction​​

The Ford Bronco holds a special place in the hearts of American car enthusiasts. While its fame wasn't solely sparked by the O.J. Simpson case, first-generation Broncos still command impressive prices on auction sites today. The subject of this story is a modified 1974 first-generation Bronco, one that fetched a notable—yet ultimately insufficient—price at auction.

This 1974 Bronco was acquired and transformed by Zero Labs Automotive into an electric vehicle. The chassis was fully refurbished, and the body incorporates extensive carbon fiber components, finished in a metallic gray paint. LED lighting and a custom illuminated grille give this classic Bronco a retro-tech vibe.

Inside, Zero Labs Automotive preserved the original Bronco's aesthetic while adding modern touches like power-adjustable leather seats, and a custom walnut wood instrument panel and center console. Features like power windows, central locking, a hidden audio system, air conditioning, heated seats, and an electronic parking brake—all absent in the original—have been seamlessly integrated. Details like body-colored mirrors and a power tailgate further highlight its unique character.

To emphasize its modern capabilities, the Bronco rides on 18-inch steel wheels—a size that clearly distinguishes it from vintage specs. It's equipped with Brembo brakes (6-piston front/4-piston rear), Fox remote-reservoir shocks, Eibach springs, and a carbon fiber hardtop. Features in publications like Motor Trendand Top Gearalso contributed to its allure.

Gone is the original 3.3L V6 or 4.7L V8 engine, replaced by a 360-horsepower BorgWarner electric motor and a 70 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering a range of 190 miles (approx. 360 km). To retain driving engagement, it keeps a 5-speed manual transmission and a transfer case, making it still capable of off-road adventures—as long as the battery range allows.

The vehicle was auctioned by the modifier, Zero Labs Automotive, with just 1,900 miles (approx. 3,050 km) on the odometer since conversion. Despite its quality, bidding was lukewarm; after only 9 bids, the price stalled at $149,000 (approx. RMB 1.066 million), failing to meet the seller's reserve price.

Considering that Zero Labs' carbon fiber electric Bronco starts at $185,000, one comment on the auction page summed it up: "While it can be called a work of art, it's not something I can afford." It appears the real goal for Zero Labs was not a sale, but rather gaining exposure and attention.

This article is generated by Jiasou TideFlow AIGC GEO