Lucas Bell 
You have probably heard about the wildfires that are raging across the United States this season. More than 7.5 million acres have been burned in what has already been recognized as one of the worst years for fires in our history. In order to honor the work of those who risk their lives to prevent the spread of these disasters, the Ford Motor Company looked back to their past. In collaboration with Filson, Ford have just pulled the cover off the Bronco Fire Rig concept.
Ford says that this new Bronco Fire Rig concept pays homage to the first responders who utilized the SUV for decades as a proper 4×4 rescue vehicle. Based on a Sasquatch Package-equipped Badlands model, the SUV is packed with all the equipment a small team might need to push back advancing flames. There’s a Kimtek FIRELITE Fire/Rescue Transport skid, a Hannay Reels fire hose reel, a Davey high-pressure water pump, and a 50-gallon water tank. Ford hasn’t forgotten about other necessary equipment however, as the truck also dons a Pulaski, shovels, axes, a STIHL chainsaw, a pair of hard hats, a high lift jack, and a Sure Seal drip torch.
Ford also added a few familiar parts we’ve seen on other recent Bronco concepts, such as the Ford Performance modular steel bumper, a WARN Zeon 10s winch, and a custom-fabricated roof rack complete with a Rigid LED Light bar. However, this truck carries quite a few unique touches thanks to the partnership with Filson. The door bolsters, armrests and seat trim surrounds are all finished in Filson’s tough otter green duck canvas. The leather seats are stitched to mirror Filson’s signature jacket lining, and the Bronco logo is even finished in brass. Most important of all of Filson’s touches however is the fireproof bikini-style top, which mirrors the material used in their backpacks.
Ford has announced that they will be donating two Broncos fitted with this gear to help forest firefighters in their efforts via the Bronco Wild Fund. Furthermore, the two companies are coming together to release a collaborative Bronco-inspired line of clothing. The Bronco + Filson line will help to fund the National Forest Foundation’s reforestation programs, as well as to promote fire prevention awareness.
The Bronco Fire Rig concept is a worthy celebration of the men and women who risk their lives to help protect our nation’s forests, and its people. We wouldn’t be too surprised to see the Ford Bronco return to service with the National Forest Service, especially considering how good it looks in their signature green.
