Ford's Bold Concept: The 1988 Ford Bronco DM-1

Jun 08, 2025

#Featured #Ford

In the late 1980s, Ford introduced a groundbreaking concept vehicle that left automotive enthusiasts buzzing with excitement. The 1988 Ford Bronco DM-1 was a multipurpose vehicle designed to cater to the needs of driving enthusiasts in the 1990s. With its sleek aerodynamic body boasting a low coefficient of drag, the Bronco DM-1 offered excellent visibility from all angles.

One of the standout features of the Bronco DM-1 was its fiberglass and steel-reinforced body, which included a specially integrated roll bar between the inner and outer skins. This design not only enhanced the vehicle's safety but also gave it a rugged and modern look.

Inside, the Bronco DM-1 boasted a functional high-volume interior that could comfortably accommodate five adults. Advanced design concepts were incorporated throughout the interior, including a cutting-edge electronic navigational system that mapped the vehicle's location via satellite.

The vehicle's electronic instrumentation was done in an analog design, providing the driver with the reliability of electronic technology combined with the easy-to-read features of analog gauges. A secondary "quick-road" digital display located at high eye level below the windshield provided crucial information such as speed, engine rpm, and the time.

Hand controls for essential functions like windshield wipers, rear defroster, and lighting were conveniently located within fingertip reach on the outer perimeter of the analog instrument cluster. The Bronco DM-1 also featured six-way adjustable seats for the driver and front passenger, as well as a fold-down rear seat to increase cargo carrying capacity when needed.

The exterior design of the Bronco DM-1 was nothing short of striking, with a rear hatch that seamlessly wrapped into the roofline to provide a larger opening for loading and unloading cargo. The interior was tastefully appointed in light and dark gray leather to complement the vehicle's overall appearance.

The brainchild of designer Derek Millsap, the Bronco DM-1 was named in his honor along with his instructor Richard Hutting. Originally conceived as a clay model by Millsap and nine other advanced transportation students, the Bronco DM-1 quickly caught the attention of Ford executives who commissioned a full-scale version to be built by Concept Center California.

Directed by Richard Hutting, the project to build the full-scale version of the Bronco DM-1 took nine months to complete. The end result was a driveable prototype that showcased the innovative design features envisioned by Millsap and his team.

While the 1988 Ford Bronco DM-1 never made it into production, it remains a testament to Ford's commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design. With its bold styling, advanced technology, and forward-thinking features, the Bronco DM-1 continues to captivate automotive enthusiasts to this day.