Ford will offer customers a plug-in hybrid version of its Ranger mid-size pickup in Europe. Production is to start in late 2024, and deliveries to customers are expected to begin in early 2025.
The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid sports a 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine along with an electric motor, and boasts an electric range of over 45 km (28 miles). Electric drive capability is a handy feature in Europe, where a growing number of towns and cities are implementing low-emission zones.
The maximum braked towing capacity of the Ranger Plug-In Hybrid is expected to be 3,500 kg, the same as the rest of the Ranger line-up. The truck will offer 4WD off-road capability, 5 selectable drive modes and various driver assist features. Pro Power Onboard enables drivers to use power tools and appliances on a work site or remote camp site by plugging them into power outlets embedded in both the cargo bed and the cabin.
“Our customers want electrified vehicles that deliver strong performance and affordable cost of ownership without compromising what they love about their truck,” said Hans Schep, General Manager, Ford Pro Europe. “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 camp sites easily.”
Ironically, Ford’s announcement of the new plug-in pickup came at the same time that UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced plans to renege on his country’s pledge to end new petrol and diesel car sales in 2030—a policy that Ford and other automakers have been counting on as they plan future production.
Ford UK chair Lisa Brankin noted that her company is investing some £430 million in its UK facilities, and called the 2030 target “a vital catalyst to accelerate Ford into a cleaner future.” Brankin said business “needs three things from the UK government: ambition, commitment and consistency. A relaxation of 2030 would undermine all three.”
Source: Ford
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