The Ford Ranger is set to introduce a petrol plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option in late 2024 or early 2025, making it the second plug-in hybrid vehicle in the segment. While plug-in hybrids have been slower to gain popularity compared to fully electric vehicles in Australia, Ford believes that the technology could appeal to customers who use power tools or require electrical support while on camping trips. The Ford Ranger PHEV claims a maximum electric-only driving range of 45km, with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder petrol engine providing an estimated driving range of over 600km in ideal conditions once the battery is depleted. Ford executives stated that 48% of Ranger owners travel less than 40km per day, fitting well within the electric-only driving range. The Ford Ranger PHEV is expected to be offered in various model grades, including a tradie pack for fleet operators. The towing capacity will be maintained in diesel-powered models, but not in electric-only mode, and the suspension has been upgraded to accommodate the added weight of the plug-in hybrid technology.
The Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid will have three hybrid modes: Automatic mode switches between petrol and electric power as needed, Now mode forces the vehicle to use only electric power, and Later mode preserves battery power to be used when needed, such as on worksites or in zero-emissions driving zones. The vehicle will also be equipped with three 10-amp power sockets: two in the ute tray for power tools or camping equipment, and one in the cabin for a portable fridge or laptop computer. Pricing and specifications are yet to be announced, but the Ford Ranger PHEV is expected to be available in different model grades, including a basic tradie XL, mid-grade XLT, and flagship Wildtrak, by the end of next year or early 2025.
Source: Joshua Dowling | The Sydney Morning Herald
Sources:
– Joshua Dowling | The Sydney Morning Herald