Automotive manufacturer Ford will add a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) to its Ranger bakkie line-up from early 2025.
The source plant for the vehicle has not been confirmed yet, says Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa, so it is unclear whether the PHEV will be produced at Ford’s Ranger plant in Pretoria, along with the rest of the bakkie range.
The US carmaker says the PHEV will “mark a significant step forward in Ford’s plans to offer a wide range of powertrain options for customers in the midsized pick-up segment”.
“The Ranger PHEV is a best-of-both-worlds solution for work, play, and family – offering customers zero-tailpipe emissions EV driving for short trips, or hybrid performance that delivers incredible on- and off-road performance,” said the company.
The PHEV will feature a 2.3ℓ EcoBoost turbo petrol engine, paired with an electric motor and rechargeable battery system.
The vehicle can be driven in pure electric mode for more than 45 km without using a drop of fuel, or producing tailpipe emissions, which should help customers save at the pump.
The PHEV will also feature Pro Power Onboard, which will enable customers to power their tools and appliances on a worksite or remote campsite by plugging them into power outlets embedded in both the cargo bed and the cabin.
The PHEV will also come equipped with four-wheel-drive capability, selectable drive modes and all the advanced driver safety and driver-assist features found in other top-grade Rangers.