The Zero Labs 1974 Carbon Electric Bronco: A Manual-Shifting Masterpiece Forged in the Future

There are restomods, and then there is the work of California-based Zero Labs, which operates on an entirely different plane of automotive existence. They don’t just restore classics; they elevate them to a state of carbon-infused, electric-powered perfection.

Few examples showcase this ethos with the dazzling commitment of the Zero Labs 1974 Carbon Electric Bronco, a machine that is part revered vintage icon, part cutting-edge technological marvel, and entirely a masterpiece of bespoke craftsmanship.

What you are looking at here is not merely a custom build, but the very first one produced, a definitive piece of modern automotive history that has covered a mere 1,855 miles (2,985 km) since its resurrection, showcasing three years of meticulous engineering and innovation.

The visual impact alone is monumental, blending rugged heritage with show-car finesse. The exterior is finished in a sublime Metallic Gray showcar carbon fibre by Aria Group, a world-first application that sees a fully remastered carbon fibre body overlaid upon the rebuilt factory-original steel.

Every panel has been rebuilt and reimagined, from the uncut rear carbon fibre fenders to the colour-matched, sound-attenuated hardtop and the custom carbon fibre engine bay cover—a subtle flex in a vehicle that no longer contains an engine in the traditional sense.

It sits proudly on 18-inch custom steel wheels, finished in a durable powder coat and wrapped in aggressive Pirelli all-terrain tyres, giving it the confident stance of a true off-roader.

The interior, however, is where the Zero Labs sorcery truly takes flight, delivering a cabin that wouldn’t look out of place in a modernist museum exhibit.

It’s a symphony of contrasting textures, featuring hand-stitched white leather seating, a steering wheel, and a dash pad, set against magnificent Eames-style custom-moulded Walnut dashboard, consoles, and decor.

This juxtaposition of the rugged classic silhouette with the minimalist, mid-century modern luxury is simply breathtaking. Every control is crafted from nickel-plated CNC-machined metalwork, from the shifter to the interior detailing, lending a precise, tactile weight to every interaction.

Modern luxuries abound, including premium three-way adjustable and heated front seats, power windows and door locks, and a custom HVAC system, all discreetly integrated with a digital gauge cluster that stylishly reflects the original Bronco design, complete with iPod connectivity and a Bluetooth interface.

Yet, perhaps the most glorious and audacious detail lies beneath the surface. The original internal combustion engine is long gone, replaced by a 100% electric drivetrain featuring a single BorgWarner permanent magnet AC motor, factory-rated at a robust 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.

Power comes from an extended-range 70 kWh battery pack, offering an estimated 170+ mile driving range, and it is all controlled by a feature practically unheard of in electric vehicles: a real-deal five-speed manual transmission complete with a dual-range transfer case for full dual-axle 4WD.

This commitment to retaining the visceral, engaging driving experience of a classic with a modern electric soul is what sets Zero Labs apart.

Resting on a custom laser-cut steel chassis with independent front and rear suspension and stopped by a Brembo 6-piston front and 4-piston rear braking system, this is a vehicle that drives as well as it looks.

Owning this level of remastered artistry, a true pinnacle of the ‘future-mod’ ethos, starts at a price point of $285,000, confirming this Zero Labs 1974 Carbon Electric Bronco is an ultra-exclusive piece of automotive history built for the discerning enthusiast who demands the best of the past and the future.

---