Ford’s 2024 Ranger: Is a Plug-In Hybrid Option on the Horizon?
Ford has recently unveiled the heavily updated 2024 Ranger, which boasts a trio of impressively powered engines. However, noticeably absent from the lineup is any kind of hybrid or plug-in hybrid option. But according to Australian outlet Drive, this may soon change as the Ranger is reportedly gaining a plug-in hybrid variant as early as next year.
The addition of a plug-in hybrid option to the Ranger would be a significant move for Ford, as it would mark the first time the company has offered a hybrid powertrain in a midsize pickup truck. This move would also align with Ford’s commitment to electrification, as the company aims to have 40% of its global vehicle sales be electric by 2030.
What to Expect from the Ranger Plug-In Hybrid
While details on the Ranger plug-in hybrid are scarce, it’s expected to feature a similar powertrain to the upcoming 2022 Ford Maverick compact pickup truck. The Maverick will offer a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This setup is expected to produce around 191 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque, while also delivering an estimated 40 mpg in city driving.
It’s possible that the Ranger plug-in hybrid could offer even more power and efficiency than the Maverick. The Ranger is larger and more capable than the Maverick, so it’s conceivable that Ford could offer a more powerful electric motor and battery pack to complement a larger gasoline engine. This would allow the Ranger plug-in hybrid to deliver impressive performance while also offering excellent fuel economy and electric-only driving range.
The Benefits of a Plug-In Hybrid Pickup Truck
A plug-in hybrid pickup truck like the Ranger would offer several benefits over traditional gasoline-powered trucks. For starters, it would offer improved fuel economy, which would save drivers money at the pump. It would also reduce emissions, which is becoming increasingly important as governments around the world implement stricter emissions regulations.
But perhaps the biggest benefit of a plug-in hybrid pickup truck is its versatility. Pickup trucks are often used for work and recreation, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain would allow drivers to use their truck for both while also reducing their environmental impact. For example, a Ranger plug-in hybrid could be used to haul equipment during the week and tow a boat or camper on the weekend, all while using little or no gasoline.
The Future of Electric Pickup Trucks
The addition of a plug-in hybrid option to the Ranger is just one example of the growing trend towards electrification in the pickup truck market. Several automakers are currently developing electric pickup trucks, including Ford, which is set to release its all-electric F-150 Lightning later this year.
Electric pickup trucks offer several advantages over traditional gasoline-powered trucks. They offer instant torque and smooth acceleration, making them ideal for towing and hauling heavy loads. They also require less maintenance than gasoline-powered trucks, as they have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes.
However, there are still some challenges to overcome before electric pickup trucks become mainstream. One of the biggest challenges is range anxiety, as many consumers are hesitant to purchase an electric vehicle due to concerns about running out of battery power. Another challenge is charging infrastructure, as there are currently fewer charging stations than gas stations in most areas.
Despite these challenges, the future looks bright for electric pickup trucks. As battery technology continues to improve and charging infrastructure expands, electric pickup trucks will become more practical and affordable for consumers. And with the addition of a plug-in hybrid option to the Ranger, Ford is taking an important step towards electrifying the pickup truck market.
Conclusion
The 2024 Ford Ranger is set to receive a plug-in hybrid option as early as next year, marking the first time Ford has offered a hybrid powertrain in a midsize pickup truck. While details on the Ranger plug-in hybrid are scarce, it’s expected to offer impressive power and efficiency, as well as improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. The addition of a plug-in hybrid option to the Ranger is just one example of the growing trend towards electrification in the pickup truck market, and it’s a sign of things to come as automakers continue to develop electric and hybrid pickup trucks.
