Ford has unveiled its much-anticipated Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Debuting at the IAA Transportation expo in Germany, the Ranger PHEV feels like an important step for the local market as one of the industry’s giants brings such a model to the nation’s most popular vehicle segment.
The Ranger PHEV combines a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine with a 75kW electric motor (e-motor) and 11.8kWh (usable) battery and 10-speed automatic gearbox.
A new Modular Hybrid Transmission (MHT) integrates Ranger PHEV’s e-motor between the engine and transmission. The traction battery is packaged between specially engineered frame rails and, using a standard household plug, can be charged to full overnight. It is big enough, Ford says, to offer an electric-only range of over 45km. Any owner would likely find that range appealing (the average daily commute for an Australian is less than 40km) but additional features will clearly find favour with Tradies and those with a hankering for camping but who wish to bring along some gadgetry.
The Pro Power Onboard feature enables customers to power up to a maximum of 6.9kW of tools and equipment directly from the onboard battery rather than needing a generator. There’s a cabin socket output of 2.3kW and two outlets in the load bed with an individual outlet limit of 3.45kW.
Drivers can choose when and how to use battery power for driving using Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later or EV Charge modes.
- Auto EV: keeps Ranger PHEV in the best mode for performance and efficiency
- EV Now: provides all-electric drive
- EV Later: keeps a portion of charge in reserve so that it can be deployed later
- EV Charge: prioritises recharging the battery while driving
Ford says the Ranger PHEV will be able tow up to 3,500kg and have Ford’s Advanced 4WD system, dual-range transfer case and rear differential lock.
In addition to the PHEV Wildtrak, Sport and XLT series, Ford is introducing a PHEV-exclusive Stormtrak launch edition which offers some extra spicy options for those getting in early. These include:
- Unique Stormtrak design features with 18-inch alloy wheels, honeycomb grille, fender vents and decal kit
- Matrix LED headlamps, Flexible Rack System, Pro Trailer Backup Assist and a 360-degree camera as standard
- Stormtrak-only new Chill Grey paint colour with Agate Black paint also available
- A cabin with B&O sound system and unique interior materials
“The Ranger PHEV delivers the benefits of electrification together with the hard-working performance that has built Ranger a loyal customer base in Australia and New Zealand,” said Andrew Birkic, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand. “We ensured our first PHEV pickup in Australia and New Zealand would be a hugely capable tool for work and off-roading, as well as a smart vehicle with the tech, connectivity and EV-only capability for family life.”
Initial customer deliveries for the Ranger PHEV are expected in 2025.
Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (October 2024)
23 October 2024