Ford has shown off its Ranger Plug-in Hybrid EV (PHEV) for the first time at the International Automobile Exhibition (IAA) Transportation show in Germany. It is set to launch here next year when the line-up, specification and pricing will become available.
The new model maintains the current towing (3500kg braked maximum), payload and off-road performance of the existing Ranger. It adds 45km of electric-only driving thanks to an 11.8kWh battery pack and 75kW electric motor. The traction battery is packaged between specially engineered frame rails. It can be rezipped overnight using an emergency charger plugged in to a three-pin wall socket.
Drivers can choose when they use battery power by selecting Auto EV (a mix of performance and efficiency), EV Now, EV Later or EV Charge mode. The latter recharges the battery while driving.
A 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine mated to a 10-speed auto comprises the ICE part of the PHEV. A new Modular Hybrid Transmission (MHT) integrates Ranger PHEV’s e-motor between the engine and transmission, permitting hybrid driving. Ranger PHEV’s off-road ability is undiluted with AWD, a dual-range transfer case and rear differential lock.
This PHEV model introduces Pro Power Onboard2 to the Ranger line-up. It enables owners to power up to a maximum of 6.9kW of tools directly from the onboard battery rather than needing a generator. Or it will also keep a fridge and lights running, and devices charged, while camping off-grid. There’s a cabin socket output of 2.3kW and two outlets in the load bed with an individual outlet limit of 3.45kW.
When it dots down, Ford is introducing a PHEV-exclusive Stormtrak launch edition. The limited-run vehicle features a new Chill Grey paint colour, the Flexible Rack System5 and a luxurious cabin. Unique features include a B&O sound system, surround camera, Matrix LED headlight, 18-inch alloys and a trailer backing assistance system.
Andrew Birkic, head of Ford down under commented “The Ranger PHEV delivers the benefits of electrification together with the hard-working performance that has built Ranger a loyal customer base in New Zealand and Australia.
“We ensured our first PHEV pick-up would be a hugely capable tool for work and off-roading. It is also a smart vehicle with the tech, connectivity and EV-only capability for family life” he added.
The Ranger PHEV will be manufactured in Silverton, South Africa, with initial customer deliveries expected next year.
