Well before the introduction of the brand-new Ford Ranger of the next generation, rumors about plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions were already circulating. Some even speculated that the plug-in hybrid variant could enter production before 2025, and there were suggestions that the high-performance Ranger Raptor might eventually offer an electrified powertrain option. However, during the North American debut of the new mid-size pickup, no confirmation was provided on this matter.
Nevertheless, a recent report from Drive indicates that the Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is not only in the works, but it is also slated for launch next year. According to the report, the Ford Ranger PHEV is scheduled to debut in 2024 as part of the updates for that model year. This means that we won’t have to wait much longer to see the electrified version of this pickup. While Ford Australia has not confirmed this report, the company had previously stated that the new Ranger was designed with electrification in mind, indicating its intention to offer a hybrid, PHEV, or EV option during its life cycle.
As for the powertrain of the Ford Ranger PHEV, the report suggests that it will utilize the existing Ford 2.3L I-4 EcoBoost base engine, combined with one or more electric motors. This combination would be a first for Ford, as they currently do not offer any PHEV with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. However, specific details such as power output, electric-only driving range, and other relevant information are not yet known.
Drive believes that the Ford Ranger PHEV will be manufactured in South Africa, at least for the Australian model. Additionally, it is expected to be available for sale in the United States, where it could potentially lead to a plug-in version of the Ford Bronco, which shares its platform with the Ranger. There is also a possibility that Ford may offer a PHEV variant of the Everest, although details regarding this potential model remain unclear at the moment.
