One was rad. The other? The other?
Ford took the wraps off an interesting concept that began life as a 1977 Bronco in the Windy City. The Montana Lobo was a futuristic version of the well-known off-roader. It featured side exhausts and removable bubble Plexiglas doors. The vehicle went through many other modifications, including an inclined windshield, side louvers, roof-mounted extra lights and an airfoil on the top.
The Blue Oval installed an integrated winch and foam bumpers as an extra special touch. The bed also featured a handy retractable loading ramp and side storage compartments. Did we mention that it featured a digital instrument cluster, ventilated seats, and side storage compartments? It was built 36 years ago.
Multipurpose vehicle for five people, shaped like an egg and bearing the name “Bronco”. It’s the obscure DM-1.
We found the original 1988 press release and we have it. It states that the DM-1 was designed “for driving enthusiasts” in the 1990s. This bold statement was made by Ford in 1988 for what was essentially a minivan with a hint of 4×4 chops. The DM-1’s low-drag aerodynamic eggshell actually contained the chassis of an Escort, on which fiberglass- and steel-reinforced panels were added.
Ford chose this name because the concept car was compatible to the Bronco II’s 4×4 system. It also allows for a jacked-up MPV that rides on off-road tires. Derek Millsap was the car’s designer. He worked with nine advanced transportation students to create “DM”. The name was a nod.
This vehicle also received a digital driver’s screen like the Montana Lobo. It also came with an early version GPS-based satellite navigation system. The front seats could be adjusted in six different ways. The rear bench was completely foldable, allowing for more cargo space whenever needed.
The Bronco DM-1 was not just a concept car to show at car shows. It was a drivable prototype.
Last note: The most recent Bronco concept dates back to 2004, when Ford tried to play with our emotions by creating a retro-flavored showcar that would be able to drive on the assembly line. The concept will be on display starting April 2018, when The Rock’s “Rampage” movie hits the big screen. You can see it in the attached gallery.