The Ford Ranger is set to add a plug-in hybrid pickup truck version to its range from early 2025.
This will make the Ford Ranger the first pickup truck to come with a PHEV version, with the model due to offer 28 miles of electric only range.
It’s not the biggest shock, given that Ford is planning to put a plug-in hybrid powertrain into the 2024 Transit Custom, but it is still the first time that you will be able to get a hybrid pickup of any sort.
Ford says that the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will offer many of the features of the diesel equivalents, saying that it will be able to get over the 1,000kg payload marker that is crucial for UK buyers as it allows pickups to be classified as a commercial vehicle and therefore benefit from the advantageous van tax system. It will also be able to maintain the Ford Ranger’s reputation for being one of the best pickup trucks for towing, with a 3.5-tonne capability.
What powertrain is in the plug-in hybrid Ford Ranger?
While Ford is not taking a big leap into the unknown by offering a PHEV version of one of its biggest-selling commercial vehicles, it has taken a slightly different approach by not just slotting in the same engine and battery combo as features elsewhere in its range. The Transit Custom features the same 2.5-litre petrol engine and batter/motor setup as several of Ford’s passenger car range, but the Ranger will come with a 2.3-litre petrol engine.
Ford says that this is because the version with the 2.5-litre engine isn’t geared up to offer the necessary off-roading ability or the towing strength that the Ranger customers demand.
Ford hasn’t given any details of the engine, battery or motor capabilities yet, other than the 28-mile electric only range. It is promising more closer to the launch date, though.
It has said that it has opted for petrol rather than diesel because the electric motor provides the torque that a diesel would normally offer at low speeds. In fact, it says that the PHEV offers more pulling power than any other Ranger. It says that it also provides other benefits, such as silent driving at lower speeds early in the morning, and improved driveability.
How is the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid different to a diesel?
Ford has factored the plug-in hybrid powertrain into the Ranger from the start, but there are still some modifications required. There is additional bracing on the rear frame to support the extra components, Ford has installed heavy duty suspension and it has tuned the steering system. The engine has been calibrated to work with the motor, too.
Ford has also gone big on the external power sockets, with three 10A outlets – one in the cabin and two in the loading bay. These are capable of turning the Ranger into a mobile generator, as you can plug heavy duty power tools into them while out on location.
How much is the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid and when can I buy one?
The plug-in hybrid Ranger is due to start production at the end of 2024, with the first versions set to head out to customers in early 2025.
Given how far off this is at the point of the PHEV’s announcement, Ford has yet to announce pricing. We’ll bring you more information when we have it.
