100% Electric 1972 Luxe-GT Electric Ford Bronco

Seth Burgett, founder and chief executive officer of Gateway Bronco, has built his company to be one of the leading niche restomod specialists in the world. In fact, Gateway is so steeped in Bronco culture that it owns the very first Bronco prototype, which had once even belonged to the legendary Carroll Shelby. To say that Seth eats, sleeps, and breathes Broncos would be a vast understatement!

Gateway Bronco has built lots of beautiful Broncos over the years, each better than the one before. With each iteration, the company infused the latest technology to bring classic Broncos into the 21st century. So, it makes complete sense that the company would be involved in the next historic chapter of the Bronco—electric power! And, of course, since all of Gateway Bronco’s builds as capable off road as well as on, this thing had to be able to traverse the toughest terrain while also making good time on the highway.

The battery package is a collection of NMC lithium-ion cells, placed both under the hood and in a compartment where the fuel tank would normally be located.

New Chassis and More

Dubbed the Luxe-GT Electric Bronco, this ’72 was stripped of its original chassis and replaced with a fully linked Kincer chassis with proprietary touches like bespoke coilovers with adjustable active ride and custom 18-inch CNC’d billet wheels with Toyo A/T tires in front of Wilwood brakes. The small-but-tall SUV can not only clear most any obstacle, but its suspension quickly switches between off-road and street settings at the push of a button.

Motivation comes from a complete drivetrain package put together by Legacy EV. A liquid-cooled UQM Danfoss HD-220 motor putting out about 300 horsepower and 980 lb-ft of torque was adapted to the 5-speed transmission, and it maintains its 4WD capabilities while providing the smoothest power the Bronco has ever seen. UQM Motor Diagnostic software was used to seamlessly control power delivery through the signal processor controller.

The battery package is a collection of NMC lithium-ion cells, placed both under the hood and in a compartment where the fuel tank would normally be located. It puts out 300 amp-hours of juice and a range of about 300 miles. At 5,200 pounds, the Bronco can still hit 60 mph in less than 5 seconds!

Creature Comforts

As you’d expect from a Bronco that sports a $265,000-plus price tag, the Luxe-GT is stuffed with creature comforts such as cleverly disguised power windows (the “cranks” are actually switches), power electric steps, climate control, heated/cooled seats (wrapped in Porsche leather), houndstooth inserts, and a Kenwood-based Apple Carplay sound system with Focal speakers. A full array of EV-specific gauges from Dakota Digital provides all of the vital information at a glance.

The Bronco is finished in Seafoam Green with brilliant Ranger stripes to break things up just the right amount. LED lighting was installed inside and out for maximum visibility. As you can see from the flawless finish, the Gateway Bronco team was as serious about the outside of the truck as it was with its underpinnings!

To give you an idea of the caliber of this thing, it has not only been featured at SEMA, but it was also a welcomed guest at the Quail Gathering during Monterey Car Week in California last August. If you know you know, but the takeaway is that very few rides get that honor; it’s reserved for the best and most exotic cars in the world.

We can’t wait to see future EV builds from Gateway Bronco, and we’re pretty sure you can’t either!

Monterey Car Week

WHAT: The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering. See 11 major vehicle debuts and anniversary celebrations from eight different automotive manufacturers as part of its annual event. These displays will include debut entries from Lotus Cars, Bugatti, Aston Martin, Bentley Motors, Acura, Pagani Automobili, and Drako Motors along with anniversary celebrations for Singer Vehicle Design, Pagani Automobili, and Bentley Motors

WHEN: August 12-21; the Quail held on Friday, Aug. 19

WHERE: Monterey, California

SPECS

Owner: Gateway Bronco

• Hamel, Illinois
• 1972 Luxe-GT Electric Ford Bronco

Motor / Drivetrain

• Motor Swap Performed By Legacy EV
• Motor Drive Unit(s):  Danfoss HD-220
• Motor/transmission mounts: Legacy EV
• Control Software: UQM Motor Diagnostic software
• Batteries: NMC Lithium Ion

Chassis/Suspension

• Custom Kincer chassis for Gateway Bronco
• Custom adjustable active ride coilovers with Eibach springs

Wheels, Tires & Brakes

• Custom 18-inch CNC one-piece billet wheels
• 33-inch Toyo Open Country  tires
• Wilwood brakes front and rear
• Kincer axles

Body/Paint

• Painted Seafoam Green by Gateway Bronco
• Ranger stripes
• Custom barnwood bed floor
• LED headlights and taillights

Interior

• Work by Gateway Bronco
• Seats upholstered with Porsche leather and houndstooth material
• Dakota Digital gauges
• Custom billet steering wheel
• LegacyEV A/C System
• Kenwood head unit and amplifiers
• Focal speakers and subwoofer

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the maintenance benefits of having an EV powertrain in a classic vehicle?

The Maintenance Perks of an EV Powertrain in Classic Cars

Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) powertrain in your classic ride offers significant maintenance benefits that are hard to ignore. Here’s what you can expect:

• Eliminate Routine Services:Say goodbye to traditional car maintenance tasks. EV powertrains don’t require oil changes, spark plug replacements, or coolant flushes. The absence of these standard components means fewer headaches and reduced upkeep costs.
• Reliability and Longevity:Electric motors are known for their durability and reliability. With fewer moving parts compared to traditional combustion engines, the likelihood of mechanical failures decreases significantly, allowing you to focus more on driving and less on repairs.
• Environmental Impact:Not only do you benefit from reduced maintenance, but you’re also making an eco-friendly choice. An EV powertrain produces no tailpipe emissions, helping you maintain a clean operation that doesn’t compromise the environment.
• Freedom for Adventures:Whether you’re off to explore the great outdoors or simply taking a leisurely drive, your EV-powered classic won’t leave a trace of oil or pollution. This gives you peace of mind to enjoy your travels without exacerbating your carbon footprint.

Transitioning your classic car to an electric powertrain fundamentally shifts the maintenance paradigm, offering a cleaner, stress-free driving experience that combines nostalgia with modern innovation.

How did traditionalists react to the introduction of an EV powertrain in a classic vehicle model?

The launch of an electric vehicle (EV) powertrain in a classic truck or SUV initially caught traditionalists off guard. Many were surprised by the integration of modern technology into iconic automotive designs. However, the addition of electronic suspension systems took the innovation to another level, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance. This advanced system allows vehicles to seamlessly transition from smooth highway travel to conquering rugged terrain with just a simple control adjustment, showcasing a remarkable evolution that has intrigued even the most staunch traditional enthusiasts.

How does the electric vehicle model compare to other vehicles showcased at the event?

At the event, the electric vehicle model stood out by matching the luxury and craftsmanship typically seen in renowned brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Rolls Royce. Attendees who are used to such prestigious names were pleasantly surprised to find that the same meticulous attention to fit, finish, and material quality was evident in our vehicle.

When parked alongside ultra-modern jets from Gulfstream, sleek exotic motorcycles, and exclusive hyper cars, the electric SUV exuded a remarkable presence. It seamlessly integrated into the elite lineup, perfectly catering to the expectations of a luxury lifestyle. This model not only held its own but also complemented the opulent surroundings, showcasing its appeal to those who appreciate top-tier design and engineering.

How does the electric vehicle fit into the lifestyle of luxury car enthusiasts?

To give you an idea of the caliber of this thing, it has not only been featured at SEMA, but it was also a welcomed guest at the Quail Gathering during Monterey Car Week in California last August. If you know, you know, but the takeaway is that very few rides get that honor; it’s reserved for the best and most exotic cars in the world.

For those accustomed to the opulence of brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini, this electric vehicle delivers an unexpected delight. The same level of fit, finish, and premium materials you’d expect from the biggest names in luxury are meticulously crafted into this SUV.

Imagine it standing proudly among Gulfstream jets, exotic motorcycles, and hyper cars. This handcrafted marvel fits seamlessly into the world of luxury, offering enthusiasts a new way to indulge in their passion for elegance and performance.

Whether you’re driving through the city or showcasing it at exclusive events, this vehicle aligns beautifully with the sophisticated lifestyle of luxury car aficionados. It’s not just about the ride—it’s about the experience.

How does the vehicle’s presentation affect those familiar with high-end brands?

It genuinely surprises and impresses those accustomed to top-tier luxury brands, suggesting it meets or exceeds their expectations.

What kind of events feature this vehicle to highlight its exclusivity?

Although not directly mentioned in their article, similar vehicles often appear at prestigious events alongside other luxury brands, showcasing their exclusivity.

How does the vehicle align with the lifestyle of luxury enthusiasts?

The vehicle seamlessly integrates into the lifestyle of luxury enthusiasts, complementing their taste for high-end, handcrafted products.

In what contexts does the vehicle fit alongside other luxury items?

It is displayed alongside high-end items such as Gulfstream jets, exotic motorcycles, and hyper cars, indicating its place in a luxury market setting.

How does the vehicle’s quality compare to established luxury brands?

The vehicle matches the high standards of quality seen in luxury brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Rolls Royce, showcasing similar attention to detail in its design and materials.

What partnerships have been formed to develop the electric vehicle’s features?

Seth Burgett, founder and chief executive officer of Gateway Bronco, has built his company to be one of the leading niche restomod specialists in the world. In fact, Gateway is so steeped in Bronco culture that it owns the very first Bronco prototype, which had once even belonged to the legendary Carroll Shelby. To say that Seth eats, sleeps, and breathes Broncos would be a vast understatement!

Gateway Bronco has built lots of beautiful Broncos over the years, each better than the one before. With each iteration, the company infused the latest technology to bring classic Broncos into the 21st century. So, it makes complete sense that the company would be involved in the next historic chapter of the Bronco—electric power! And, of course, since all of Gateway Bronco’s builds are as capable off-road as well as on, this thing had to be able to traverse the toughest terrain while also making good time on the highway.

To bring this vision to life, Gateway Bronco formed strategic partnerships with industry leaders. Roush Performance and Eaton Superchargers, renowned for their engineering expertise, collaborated with the company to navigate the uncharted EV territory. This collaboration ensured the integration of cutting-edge electric vehicle features, setting a new standard in the restomod market.

Additionally, the motivation comes from a complete drivetrain package put together by Legacy EV. A liquid-cooled UQM Danfoss HD-220 motor putting out about 300 horsepower and 980 lb-ft of torque was adapted to the 5-speed transmission, and it maintains its 4WD capabilities while providing the smoothest power the Bronco has ever seen. UQM Motor Diagnostic software was used to seamlessly control power delivery through the signal processor controller.

The battery package is a collection of NMC lithium-ion cells, placed both under the hood and in a compartment where the fuel tank would normally be located.

By leveraging these powerful alliances, Gateway Bronco has not only upheld its heritage but has also boldly stepped into the future of electric mobility.

What is the nature of the new venture or project?

The new venture involves exploring the electric vehicle landscape, which represents a fresh direction for the company, as they had not previously ventured into this area.

Which companies are involved in the development projects?

The companies involved include Roush Performance and Eaton Superchargers, both of which have collaborated on multiple projects with the company in question.

What event was chosen to introduce the new electric vehicle model to the public?

To give you an idea of the caliber of this thing, it has not only been featured at SEMA, but it was also a welcomed guest at the Quail Gathering during Monterey Car Week in California last August. If you know, you know, but the takeaway is that very few rides get that honor; it’s reserved for the best and most exotic cars in the world.

Monterey Car Week is a legendary event, a mecca for car collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. This weeklong celebration on America’s west coast is packed with exhilarating car shows, exclusive collector car auctions, historic races, and thrilling vehicle unveils. After a year of missing out on such spectacles, the 2023 event was highly anticipated, making it the perfect stage for unveiling something truly special.

The Quail Gathering, one of the most prestigious events of the week, is synonymous with luxury and innovation. Being showcased there is a testament to a vehicle’s excellence, and this year, the newest electric model stole the spotlight, symbolizing a blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless design.

What is the general atmosphere or appeal of the event?

The event is a dream come true for car enthusiasts due to its wide array of attractions and the gathering of like-minded individuals.

What are the maintenance benefits of having an EV powertrain in a classic vehicle?

Given its status as a major car spectacle, it provides an ideal platform for introducing new vehicles to a global audience.

What activities are featured during this event?

The event includes a variety of activities such as car shows, auctions of collector cars, historic races, and the unveiling of new vehicles.

Why is this event significant?

The event marks a significant reunion for car enthusiasts worldwide, particularly notable after many events were missed in 2020.

What event is being highlighted?

The event is Monterey Collector Car Week, a prominent gathering for car enthusiasts.