Power and Performance Meet the New Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid - Saving the Planet One Tough Truck at a Time
Ford's Ranger lineup gets a boost with the introduction of the plug-in hybrid model, offering the highest power output in the line.
Muddin' through Iceland's lava fields or towing your boat to the lake? Go ahead, the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid brings hybrid technology to a pickup truck that excels in all conditions. No need to worry about a sustainability trade-off - this PHEV surpasses even its diesel counterparts.
The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid, starting at 53,180 euros, is Ford's most fuel-efficient vehicle and the most powerful in the Ranger lineup, with a whopping 207 kW/281 PS. Despite its robust capabilities, Ford promises that no compromise was made on towing capacity, payload, or the Ranger's renowned off-road prowess. To handle tough terrains, the hybrid offers six driving modes, including "Mud" or "Sand," customizing performance and traction to the terrain, and even an electric trailer assist for easy maneuverability. Along with its 21.5 cm ground clearance and 80 cm wading depth, the Ranger PHEV is the perfect partner for any outdoor adventure.
Skipping the Big Battery Decision
With an electric range of up to 43 km and a battery capacity of 11.8 kWh, the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid doesn't qualify for the 0.5% tax privilege that requires 80 km of electric range due to the addition of a larger battery. Ford purposefully opted for a smaller battery, as increased weight from a larger battery would decrease the payload, something Ranger customers value highly.
In Iceland's unforgiving wilderness, the plug-in hybrid truly shines. The immediate torque from its electric motor ensures smooth propulsion over loose stones, preventing tirespinning and making for more controlled climbs. And when it's time for a water crossing, the Ranger's advanced electronics ensure it's bone dry, even when wading through up to 80 cm of water. With a low-range gearing and a remainder 100% locking rear differential, the Ranger PHEV ensures you'll never be left high and dry.
Charging on the Fly
While a charging port is a must, the Ranger doesn't accommodate DC fast charging like other PHEVs. Instead, charging is achievable via a standard 230-volt household power outlet, reaching a full charge in around 4 hours. Although the Ranger's average fuel consumption is reported to be just 3.2 liters per 100 km, this figure is reached under optimal conditions with regular charging. Real-world fuel consumption can increase substantially, particularly during long trips without charging stops, potentially rendering the additional cost of the PHEV irrelevant.
The Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is available in three trim levels: XLT, Wildtrak, and Stormtrak, each in double cab, five-seat trims. Every version includes all-wheel drive, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and helpful assistance systems. The Wildtrak offers enhanced comfort, a sporty appearance, advanced infotainment, and premium seat upholstery, starting at 62,225 euros. The top-of-the-line Stormtrak adds features such as leather upholstery, a B&O sound system, special paint and trim elements, and added comfort and technology extras.
The Power of Portability: Pro Power Onboard System
The standout feature of the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is the Pro Power Onboard System, a game-changer for both businesses and individuals. With various power outlets in the cargo bed and cabin, the Ranger PHEV can power tools or charge camping equipment directly, all without the need for noisy and polluting generators, which are banned in some areas. Whether you're a contractor, camper, or eco-enthusiast, the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid promises to help you power up your world.
Hitting the Road: A Practical Test
Electrification adds versatility to everyday life and work with the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid, without compromising the Ranger's familiar capabilities. With a braked towing capacity of 3,500 kg, a payload of 973 kg, and cargo bed dimensions of 1.64 x 1.22 x 0.5 meters, the Ranger PHEV is ready for anything.
For those looking for a truck that effortlessly handles work and play while cutting emissions, the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid won't disappoint - no more diesel for you!
- Specifications
- Ford Models
- Hybrid Pickup Trucks
- Electromobility
- SUVs
Sources: ntv.de, Alexander Sellei, and sp-x
Enrichment Data:The real-world fuel consumption and charge time for the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid vary depending on driving conditions and battery state, but here are the key insights:
- Under optimal conditions with regular charging, the Ranger PHEV can have a fuel consumption as low as around 4.9 liters per 100 km over 80 kilometers of mainly highway driving[config5].
- During an 60-kilometer mixed loop starting in Auto EV mode, the Ranger PHEV achieved about 6.9 liters per 100 km, which is still impressive given the size and off-road capabilities of the vehicle[config2].
- Once the battery is depleted and the petrol engine is running alone, real-world fuel economy drops to around 9 liters per 100 km on long trips, which aligns with expectations for a hybrid running mostly on petrol power without electric propulsion[config5].
- When towing, fuel consumption rises considerably to between 18-22 liters per 100 km depending on driving conditions and load[config5]. Expect a range on a 70-liter fuel tank of between 350-390 kilometers under normal towing conditions[config5].
- Real-world fuel economy with a flat battery is closer to 30 miles per gallon (~7.8 liters per 100 kilometers), and official WLTP figures claim 88-90 miles per gallon (2.9 liters per 100 km), but these lab figures are rarely matched in daily driving[config1][config3].
- The WLTP-rated electric-only range for the Ranger PHEV is about 45 km, but real-world electric-only range tends to be less, about 21-27 kilometers (13-17 miles) depending on driving style and conditions. The vehicle includes regenerative braking which helps maintain battery charge during stop-start conditions and mixed terrain driving, boosting efficiency[config2][config5].
- Typical charge time on a standard home charger with an 11.8 kWh battery is around 1.5 to 2 hours. External charging time for the Ford Ranger PHEV was not explicitly detailed in the search results[config1][config2].
- The Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid offers vocational training opportunities, as its Pro Power Onboard System can power tools for contractors without the need for noisy and polluting generators.
- Despite the focus on finance and sustainability, the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid is also a fitting choice for individuals who value lifestyle gadgets and automotive technology, as it offers advanced infotainment systems and a B&O sound system.
- In addition to its impressive performance in various industries, such as transportation, the Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid also promotes a shift towards electric-vehicles, showcasing the future of vehicular technology in the form of a hybrid pickup truck.
- The community policy of Ford prioritizes the reduction of emissions in all conditions, as evident in the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid's ability to operate efficiently even during long trips without charging stops.
- The Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid's vocational training capabilities extend to the outdoor adventure lifestyle, as its electric motor ensures smooth propulsion over tough terrain for off-roading activities like mudding and towing boats.
