Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid: Pricing, Specs & Where to Buy
▼ Summary
– Pick-up trucks like the Ford Ranger are designed for utility but now also serve as family vehicles, blending workhorse functionality with lifestyle appeal.
– The Ford Ranger is a global player, dominant in Europe, with the Wildtrak spec being particularly popular in the UK for its premium features.
– Ford has introduced a hybrid version of the Ranger (PHEV) in the UK, as fully electric options like the Lightning are not yet available there.
– The Ranger PHEV features a 2.3-liter turbo petrol engine paired with a 75-kW electric motor and an 11.8-kWh battery, offering multiple driving modes for flexibility.
– The hybrid system includes EV Auto, EV Now, EV Later, and EV Charge modes, alongside traditional driving modes, challenging conventional pick-up truck norms.
The Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid combines rugged capability with modern efficiency, offering a compelling option for those who need both workhorse performance and everyday practicality. This latest iteration marks a significant step forward for the popular pick-up, blending Ford’s proven engineering with electrified technology to meet evolving demands.
Pick-up trucks have always been about getting the job done, but today’s buyers expect more. They want versatility—a vehicle that can handle tough tasks while doubling as comfortable family transport. The Ford Ranger has long been a global standout, dominating markets like Europe with its robust design and reliability. Now, the introduction of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version adds a new layer of appeal, particularly for eco-conscious drivers who aren’t ready to go fully electric.
Unlike the all-electric F-150 Lightning available in the U.S., the Ranger PHEV caters to markets where charging infrastructure is still developing. In the UK, for instance, fully electric pick-ups are rare, with only niche options like the Maxus offering limited appeal. Toyota’s Hi-Lux, while dependable, sticks with a mild hybrid setup, making the Ranger PHEV a standout choice for those seeking a balance between power and efficiency.
Under the hood, the Ranger PHEV pairs Ford’s proven 2.3-liter Ecoboost turbo petrol engine with a 75-kW electric motor, integrated into the 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup delivers seamless power delivery, whether running on petrol, electricity, or a combination of both. The 11.8-kWh battery is neatly tucked beneath the load bed, maintaining practicality while adding just a slight bulge to the chassis. Despite its compact size, the battery supports an all-electric range of around 26 miles (WLTP), ideal for short commutes or urban driving.
Charging is straightforward, with a 7-kW wall charger replenishing the battery in roughly 2.5 hours. The system offers multiple driving modes to suit different needs: EV Auto for balanced hybrid use, EV Now for pure electric driving, EV Later to conserve battery power, and EV Charge, which lets the petrol engine top up the battery on the go. Traditional driving modes, Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, and terrain-specific settings, remain intact, ensuring the Ranger retains its off-road prowess.
Visually, the PHEV stays true to the Ranger’s rugged aesthetic, with only subtle clues like a lightning bolt-adorned charging port hinting at its electrified nature. Practicality isn’t compromised, with a 1-ton payload capacity and enough space for a Euro pallet between the wheel arches.
For buyers who need a versatile, efficient pick-up without sacrificing capability, the Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid delivers. It’s a smart evolution of a proven formula, blending toughness with forward-thinking technology. Whether for work or leisure, this hybrid Ranger proves that even the most utilitarian vehicles can adapt to a greener future.
(Source: Wired)
