The specialized off-roader has the desirable Sasquatch package and will be stationed at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico.
Ford has donated a specially modified Bronco SUV to the National Park Service to help the agency combat wildfires on public land, inspired by the Wildland Fire Rig Concept from 2020.
Based on the Badlands trim, the off-roader will be used in the Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico and will serve as a firefighting command vehicle. Kitted with a state-of-the-art government communication system, the Bronco has satellite and antenna connections, allowing rescue works to communicate quickly and efficiently.
There's even a drone that can display a live feed on screens within the vehicle and a tablet with special software that helps response teams coordinate aerial assistance, detect fires, and more, no doubt the end result of this patent filing from the Blue Oval.
With a factory-fitted Warn winch, a roof rack and light bar, and emergency lights scattered across the vehicle, it'll be mighty capable, and the black beadlock wheels with a red lip match the white and red livery.
Ford has equipped the Bronco with the Sasquatch package, giving it increased off-road ability thanks to increased ground clearance, 35-inch mud terrain tires, and high-clearance fender flares, among other things.
Darley, a respected manufacturer of official government vehicles, helped modify the vehicle, which is just the first, as Darley is expected to build another Bronco fire response vehicle for the National Park Service.
“For more than a century Ford has supported fire response and disaster relief efforts by deploying vehicles to provide emergency transportation and power and deliver essential goods,” said Dave Rivers, Ford enthusiast brand manager. “Bronco Wild Fund was created because of our passion for the outdoors, and we're excited to donate the Bronco wildland firefighting command rig to Bandelier to help protect this National Monument for generations to come.”
Bandelier National Monument spans 33,000 acres and is particularly special. There's evidence of human presence stretching back 11,000 years, with multiple canyons and mesas, some of which contain ancient petroglyphs (rock drawings).
The park has a history of natural fires and has experienced more fires in recent years, especially as the fire season is longer than before.
66% of Bandelier has been designated wilderness, making it extremely difficult to access in an emergency.
“I want to thank Ford for this generous donation. Over the last 20 years, warmer temperatures and stronger winds have resulted in bigger fires that are harder to predict and manage,” said Patrick Suddath, superintendent of Bandelier National Monument.
Ford recently donated a fleet of pickup trucks and off-roaders to Team Rubicon, a veteran-led organization that helps communities ravaged by natural disasters.
The Blue Oval has a strong history of providing vehicles to law enforcement, and the company has taken the opportunity to remind us of this by sharing some old photos. Pictured below are a series of workhorses, including a 1921 Model T fire truck, a '58 Edsel ambulance, and a more modern F-550 first responder emergency truck.
This tradition continues today, and as the electric era approaches, Ford has pivoted to offering battery-powered police cars based on the Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning.
Keyword: Ford Bronco Wildland Is A Firefighting Off-Roader For A Good Cause