At the Detroit Auto Show, Ford has announced a nationwide search to donate five Bronco Badlands models equipped with the Sasquatch Package to under-resourced search and rescue (SAR) organisations across the USA.
The donations are part of the Bronco Wild Fund’s commitment to provide five specialised vehicles in 2026. Two recipients, Kern County Fire & Rescue (CA) and Teton County Search & Rescue (WY), are already confirmed, and Ford is now inviting applications for the remaining three.
Advanced Capabilities for Demanding Environments
To ensure these vehicles are mission-ready, Ford is collaborating with Darley, a trusted provider of defence and rescue equipment, and Public Safety Direct, a leading emergency vehicle upfitter. Together, they will equip each Bronco with advanced capabilities designed for the most demanding environments and that meet the special needs of the recipients which may include special features and technology such as: Starlink satellite connectivity, for reliable communications in remote or disaster-impacted areas; integrated drone technology, for real-time aerial reconnaissance and situational awareness and advanced lighting, winches, and recovery systems.
Commitment to Innovation
Peter Darley, Executive Vice President and COO of Darley, said: “We’re proud to collaborate with Ford because we share a commitment to innovation and supporting those who serve. By combining Ford’s legendary vehicles with Darley’s expertise in rescue and communications gear, we’re helping search and rescue teams operate at their best, even in the toughest conditions.”
Kevin Sofen, Technology & Innovation Manager for Darley, added: “Search and rescue teams don’t need complicated technology, they need tools that work every time they show up for work. These Broncos are purpose-built with reliable connectivity and integrated rescue capabilities designed specifically for how SAR teams operate. It’s a vehicle teams can rely on in demanding conditions, without having to question whether it’s going to hold up when lives are on the line.”
Search and rescue organisations interested in applying for one of these specialised Broncos can visit https://nasar.org/page/AnswerTheCall for details.
