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Ford Ranger Phev, adventure-size rechargeable hybrid: what it costs and how it goes

The house of the blue oval introduces a plug-in version of the famous pick-up into the range

by Mario Cianflone

3' min read

3' min read

Ford Ranger is now also a Plug-in hybrid, making it an ideal vehicle for work and leisure. It's just a pity that in Italy these vehicles are penalised by anachronistic legislation. We went to get to know the new five-seater pick-up truck in Iceland through rough trails and volcanic rock roads, fording rivers and tackling slopes and descents. And the conclusion is very simple: this is a comfortable, well-made vehicle that is much more premium than many fashionable SUVs, because here we are dealing with practicality and robustness, with a taste for the essential and well-made. Of course the materials are not luxurious, but everything is very solid with good ergonomics and unexceptionable comfort for the type of vehicle. The new rechargeable hybrid powertrain also reduces fuel consumption and has four operating modes that allow the battery to be managed as required, offering around 40 km of electric drive

Ford Ranger Phev, debutto in Islanda: tutte le foto del pick up ibrido plug-in

Photogallery32 foto

Ford thus introduces for the first time in the Ranger range a rechargeable hybrid propulsion system, without compromising load capacity, off-road performance and professional functionality. The technical architecture is based on a familiar platform, updated to integrate the new hybrid drivetrain, optimised for use in mixed on-road and operational environments.

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The powertrain of the Ranger PHEV combines the 2.3 EcoBoost petrol engine with a 75 kW electric motor, powered by an 11.8 kWh net lithium-ion battery. The 10-speed automatic transmission integrates a modular hybrid module that actively manages the decoupling between the two energy sources via an electromechanical actuator.

The system allows several electric drive management modes, including Auto EV mode, which automatically uses the electric mode, EV Now mode, which prioritises electric drive, EV Later mode, which saves charge for later use, and EV Charge mode, which activates charging via the heat engine.

The battery can be recharged via the external mains with a 16 A single-phase charger, requiring less than four hours for a full charge. Charging via regenerative braking or internal combustion engine is also possible.

Ford Ranger PHEV: Performance and Capabilities

Combined power reaches 281 hp, with a maximum torque of 697 Nm, which is more than any other Ranger. The e-4WD, with automatic distribution and rear differential lock capability, is supported by a two-range gearbox and selectable driving modes specific to different contexts of use, including road surfaces, mud, sand or towing.

We tested it in really rough terrain and found that the traction was always adequate for the requirements. Of course it doesn't offer the comfort of a Land Rover, but we are talking about a vehicle that was born for work and offers truly heavy-duty functionality.

The Ranger Phev retains the full towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a payload of around one tonne. The mechanical configuration includes redesigned rear side members to accommodate the battery and revised suspension to compensate for the different weight distribution compared to the thermal versions.

A distinctive feature is the introduction of the Pro Power Onboard system, with the possibility of supplying electricity directly from the traction battery. There are two configurations: a 2.3 kW configuration, suitable for powering a portable refrigerator or light tools, for example; and a 6.9 kW configuration (3.45 kW for each socket), designed for professional construction site equipment such as concrete mixers, floodlights and high-powered power tools.

The rear box retains standard pallet compatibility and includes useful accessories such as the Easy Lift tailgate and integrated lighting. The cabin accommodates up to five people and includes an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, 12-inch vertical central display and SYNC 4A infotainment system.

Ford Ranger PHEV: safety and driving support

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Technologies available as standard include pre-collision assist, lane keeping and rear camera. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system also allows simplified trailer manoeuvring via a dedicated controller and monitoring via central display.

The Ranger PHEV is available in XLT, Wildtrak and Stormtrak trims (the latter as a launch edition), each with specific equipment to suit different operating requirements. The Wildtrak trim includes, among other things, 360-degree lighting and heated front seats, while the Stormtrak version is distinguished by Matrix LED headlamps, a 10-speaker B&O audio system, a 2.3 kW Pro Power Onboard module and an adjustable sports bar.

The configuration features a five-seat double cab and a body designed to accommodate a Euro pallet between the wheel arches. Users can customise the vehicle with dealer-installed accessories, such as rear covers, box covers or equipment for specialised uses, ranging from beekeeping to firefighting.

Ford Ranger Phev, prices

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The price list is published with VAT to be added because it is a commercial vehicle and competitive with similar models. It starts at 48,000 euro + VAT for the XLT version, which becomes 55,500 euro + VAT for the Wildtrak variant. The top-of-the-range Stormtrak comes in at 60,000 euros + VAT.

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