Ford has revealed the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of its Ranger pickup at the II Transportation show in Hanover. Ford promises it’s a ‘no compromise’ model that offers the full payload, towing and off-road capabilities of the regular Ranger but with improved economy and a 27-mile range under zero-emission electric power.
The PHEV model also introduces Pro Power Onboard to the Ranger, enabling customers to power work tools and devices directly from the drive battery, rather than needing a generator or relying on the traditional 12-volt car battery.
Ford is also taking the opportunity to introduce a new PHEV-exclusive trim level alongside the XLT and Wildtrak models. The Sotrmtrak edition adds rugged styling cues, including 18-inch alloy wheels, a honeycomb grille, fender vents and a Stormtrak decal kit. There’s also useful equipment, such as LED headlights, a flexible rack system, trailer backup assist and a 360-degree camera. The new trim is presented in an exclusive Chill Grey colour, with Agate Black also available.
“The all-new Ranger PHEV delivers the benefits of electrification hand-in-hand with the hard-working performance that has built Ranger a loyal fanbase in Europe,” said Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Pro, Europe. “We have perfected our first PHEV pickup in Europe to be a hugely capable tool for work and off-roading, as well as a premium vehicle with the comfort, connectivity and EV-only capability for family duties.”
Plug-in Powertrain
The new Ranger PHEV takes Ford’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine and pairs it with a 75kW electric motor powered by an 11.8kWh battery pack. Combined, the engine and motor generate 279hp, with an impressive 690Nm of torque — more than any other Ranger, including the Raptor.
A modular hybrid transmission integrates the Ranger PHEV’s e-motor with the Ranger’s 10-speed automatic gearbox to enable hybrid driving. Drivers can choose when and how to use battery power using EV Now, EV Later or EV Charge modes, or just let the pickup sort itself out automatically.
Ford engineers also revised the suspension tuning to take into account the Ranger PHEV’s unique chassis and weight distribution.
Drivers will be able to fully charge the battery in under four hours using a regular three-pin plug socket, meaning it’s easy to charge overnight and leave in the morning with a full 27-mile range available. At standard home electricity rates of around 25p/kWh, that’s the financial equivalent of around 60mpg.
Payload and Practicality
Despite the addition of an electric motor and battery pack, the Ranger PHEV retains the same towing and payload capabilities as the regular diesel-powered model. Customers will be able to carry a payload of up to one tonne, while towing is rated at 3.5 tonnes.
The Pro Power Onboard technology provides a 2.3kW power supply to sockets in the load box, allowing customers to power high-draw tools and equipment on a job site, or a fridge and lights on a campsite. AN optional 6.9kW upgrade features two 15 amp outlets, with 3.45kW available from each to meet the demands of heavier-duty equipment.
Off-road capability remains, with the Ranger PHEV receiving Ford’s latest e-4WD system, a dual-range transfer box and a rear differential lock. The hybrid battery pack is located centrally in the vehicle, so approach, breakover and departure angles are unaffected.
Pricing and Availability
The new Ranger PHEV will be built at Ford’s Silverton facility in South Africa, with first customer deliveries expected in Spring 2025. Like all other Ford commercial vehicles, the Ranger plug-in hybrid is backed by a comprehensive suite of servicing, charging, software and financing offers.
