As hinted in the cryptic teaser from a few days ago, Ford of Europe will embark on the journey of electrification for the first time in the mid-size pickup truck segment with the inaugural Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid with available Pro Power Onboard.
Although at home in America, it can't say the same - during the first six months of the year, the outgoing 2023 Tacoma dominated the segment, followed at a distance by the Nissan Frontier, Chevy Colorado, Honda Ridgeline, Jeep Gladiator, and then Ford's representative – the Ranger mid-size pickup truck continues to be the most popular representative of the sector in Europe.
And it's not hard to guess why – Ford sells the second-gen T6-based Ranger (P703) with many powertrains (EcoBoost and diesel), lots of trim options (including Tremor, Wildtrak X, or the flagship Raptor). Now, they aim for additional hype in the green field by adding the first-ever 2024 Ford Ranger PHEV to the lineup – with targeted first deliveries in early 2025.
The 2024 Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid will offer the 'perfect' combination of a 2.3-liter EcoBoost gasoline mill, an electric motor, and a rechargeable battery for "zero-tailpipe emission driving capability in addition to the essential next-generation Ranger towing, off-road and payload attributes, and more torque than any other Ranger." Besides, now there's more cargo space in the bed's truck because professionals can leave the generator behind thanks to the available Pro Power Onboard feature.
Because production only kicks off in late 2024 before the first customer deliveries in early 2025, Ford is not in a hurry to present the full technical specification spreadsheet. However, that doesn't mean we cannot access some of the preliminary figures. For example, the American company's European arm targets an electric driving range of at least 45 km (28 miles). At the same time, the maximum braked towing capacity remains the same (3,500 kg or 7,716 pounds) as any other Ranger in the family.
"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. Additionally, Ford will offer Pro Power Onboard, a system to provide on-demand electricity.
That will be particularly useful for powering high-draw power tools, but it also means additional freedom to power remote campsites during overlanding adventures. By the way, work devices and appliances can be plugged in both in the cargo bed as well as the cabin. There are also new Ranger Plug-in Hybrid EV drive modes for the driver, enabling flexible use of the EV battery power. Additionally, Ford hasn't forgotten about the truck's capability - four-wheel drive, selectable drive modes, and advanced driver safety and assist features are still on board.
Aurel has aimed high all his life (literally, at 16 he was flying gliders all by himself) so in 2006 he switched careers and got hired as a writer at his favorite magazine. Since then, his work has been published both by print and online outlets, most recently right here, on autoevolution. Full profile
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