With the new Ranger gracing the roads of Britain, Ford have opted to take a vastly different approach to their competitors by introducing a plug in hybrid version.
Ford’s brand new Ranger is set to make a bit more of an impact than it already has, we’re not getting a full EV version (like those stateside get with the F150 Lightning) but we are getting a plug-in hybrid. This significance of this is quite huge. In the UK, we don’t get any PHEV trucks (we do get the full EV Maxus T90) so the introduction of this Ranger marks a change to the commercial segment.
The most striking feature of the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is its powertrain, oddly. Under its bonnet, it houses the 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, setting it apart from the majority of pickup trucks that rely solely on diesel engines. Currently, the only petrol truck you can buy is Ford’s hot version of the Ranger, the Raptor which uses a 3.0 V6 turbo petrol to power it – however, that is designed to go fast off-road, not be a fully commercial workhorse.
Being a plug-in means you can drive this solely in electric mode, with Ford quoting a range of 28 miles, which we can imagine will be closer to 20 in reality. However, for those who need to pop to town or down to their field, this should be more than enough. Should also be quite useful for those who need to go into London under the new stricter (and ever-increasing) ULEZ compliances.
“The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will help customers step forward into an electrified future, with more confidence and capability than ever before, while keeping Ranger at the forefront of innovation and leadership in the mid-size pickup truck segment,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe.
Another noteworthy feature of the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is its Pro Power Onboard system, which allows buyers to power their high-draw power tools and appliances directly from the truck. Embedded power outlets in both the cargo bed and the cabin make it easy to leave behind noisy generators, freeing up space for additional cargo. This feature enhances convenience and versatility, whether you’re at a worksite or a remote campsite. No word yet on length of operating time but it is likely the Ranger will have a decent sized battery.
It’s clear to see that the battery is housed under the bed, leading to a slight disadvantage in height if using the canopy cover (like you would if you had doggos) but in reality most will have an uncovered bed so this should present very little in the way of issues. The bed itself is also sloped so you can still slide in equipment rather than having to lift it over a big load lip.
“Our customers want electrified vehicles that deliver strong performance and affordable cost of ownership without compromising what they love about their truck,” Schep said. “The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is a best-of-both-worlds solution for work, play, and family – offering customers zero-tailpipe emission EV driving for short trips, or hybrid performance that delivers incredible off-road, payload and towing capabilities. And, with Pro Power Onboard for the first time, Ranger owners can power their work sites and campsites easily.”
Either way, this new PHEV marks a very interesting change to the pickup segment and is likely more manufacturers will follow suit, especially now that it is targeted at the emerging lifestyle sector that will be after something much better on fuel and somewhat future-proofed.