The Ford Ranger PHEV: The UK’s First Plug-In Hybrid Pick-Up
The Ford Ranger PHEV has been unveiled as the UK’s first plug-in hybrid pick-up, catering to small- and medium-sized business owners with its impressive chassis and technology upgrades, competitive electric-only range, and significant performance boost. Scheduled for production in 2024 and European deliveries in early 2025, the Ford Ranger PHEV is only the second zero-emission-capable pick-up confirmed for the UK, joining the all-electric Maxus T90EV.
Ford has ensured that the electrified Ranger matches the characteristics of its current model, retaining the same one-tonne payload, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and boasting the highest torque figure among all Ranger models. While exact figures have not been disclosed, power is derived from Ford’s 2.3-litre Ecoboost four-cylinder petrol engine, enhanced by a “relatively large” electric motor. This combination is expected to surpass the performance of any pure-combustion Ranger, including the powerful 288bhp V6-engined Ford Ranger Raptor.
The electric motor’s battery size has not been revealed, but Ford guarantees an electric-only range of “more than” 27 miles. For comparison, the Ford Kuga PHEV, which offers a similar electric-only range, utilizes a 14.4kWh battery. The Ranger’s battery will support AC charging exclusively. The decision to opt for a PHEV powertrain rather than a pure-EV option, like the US-market Ford F-150 Lightning, was made to promote off-road use without relying on charging infrastructure and to ensure compliance with tightening emissions regulations and EU green zone standards worldwide.
The Ford Ranger PHEV offers four driving modes for drivers to choose from: EV Auto, EV Now, EV Later, and EV Charge. EV Auto allows the engine to kick in when necessary, EV Now operates solely on electric power, EV Later conserves the electric charge by using the engine only, and EV Charge utilizes part of the engine as a generator to charge the battery while driving.
To accommodate the additional weight of the hybrid system, Ford has reinforced the chassis with extra bracing and stronger suspension. The engine and steering have also been recalibrated to provide a lighter feel while maintaining similarity to the current model. Designed for small- and medium-sized business owners, the Ford Ranger PHEV comes equipped with Pro Power, an on-board generator with three interior power outlets that can be used on remote worksites or during camping trips. While this feature is likely to be standard, Ford will confirm closer to the car’s market launch in 2024.
The model also includes geofencing technology, which automatically detects when it enters a low-emission zone and switches to electric power. It then returns to the default EV Auto mode upon exiting the zone. Pricing details have not been disclosed by Ford, but the company assures that it will be competitively priced to maintain its value and capability. Ford has not confirmed whether a hybrid version of the entry-level single-cab Ranger will be released.
Regarding the possibility of a hybrid version of the hardcore Ranger Raptor, Ford commercial vehicle marketing manager Chris Rushton has not ruled it out. He stated, “We will make sure the PHEV is available on those derivatives which are our most popular globally and especially with the European customer in mind.”
In conclusion, the Ford Ranger PHEV is set to revolutionize the pick-up truck market in the UK as the country’s first plug-in hybrid pick-up. With its impressive performance, competitive electric-only range, and advanced technology features, it is poised to attract small- and medium-sized business owners seeking a sustainable and versatile vehicle. As production begins in 2024 and deliveries commence in early 2025, the Ford Ranger PHEV is sure to make a significant impact on the automotive industry and pave the way for more electrified pick-up trucks in the future.