Ford has revealed details of the Ranger plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) ahead of its Australian launch in mid-2025.
With four variants – XLT ($71,990), Sport ($75,990), Wildtrak ($79,990), and the special Stormtrak ($86,990)—the Ranger PHEV introduces a powerful 2.3L turbocharged EcoBoost engine paired with a 75kW electric motor and an 11.8kWh battery. This plug-in hybrid system delivers a combined power output of 207kW and torque of 697Nm, with a fuel economy of just 2.9L/100km.
“The addition of PHEV to the Ranger lineup marks the first time in history that Australia’s best-selling nameplate has been offered with an electrified plug-in hybrid option,” Ford Australia President and CEO Andrew Birkic.
“Our Aussie engineering and design team have created a plug-in hybrid that allows diesel ute buyers to begin their electrification journey without sacrificing any of the core capability that they need from a truck – whether they use it for work or play.
“The Ranger PHEV is just the tip of the spear for our commercial EV line-up, with the E-Transit Custom and Transit Custom PHEV set to join E-Transit in our line-up soon. If you are an Aussie business wanting to explore whether an electrified vehicle is right for you, we will have four incredibly capable vehicles on offer to suit your needs.”
The Ranger PHEV features a Modular Hybrid Transmission (MHT) that integrates the e-motor between the engine and transmission, offering hybrid and EV modes tailored to the driver’s needs.
Ranger PHEV also brings a unique loadbox that accommodates two European-sized pallets, offering up to 973kg of payload in the XLT variant—180kg more than any other plug-in hybrid dual-cab ute currently available. Its off-road capabilities are supported by a full-time 4WD system and mechanical transfer case, which ensures power to all wheels, even on steep hills.
Big-time power
“All owners need to do is plug the Ranger PHEV in every night to charge the battery like they would their phone,” Ford Australia Electric Vehicles GM Myles Hartley said.
“The power to unlock incredible fuel saving is in the hands of owners, with Ranger PHEV’s drive modes giving drivers the ability to complete entire trips without using the combustion engine or saving the battery for when it will be at its most efficient – such as slow stop-start traffic.
“Even without a charged battery providing electrical assistance, the 2.3-litre EcoBoost has proven to provide impressive highway fuel economy figures. And for when getting off the line quickly is a top priority, Ranger PHEV benefits from the ‘Sport’ drive mode that was previously exclusive to Ranger Raptor, which engages the hybrid system to deliver as much power and torque as possible with a sharp throttle calibration.”
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The vehicle’s EV modes offer flexibility for drivers, allowing them to choose between Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later, or EV Charge, each optimising the use of the hybrid powertrain depending on the situation.
One standout feature is Pro Power Onboard, which is available across all variants. It provides up to 6.9kW of power through various outlets, enabling owners to power tools or appliances directly from the vehicle. “Pro Power Onboard is a game changer for Ranger owners,” said Phil Millar, Chief Program Engineer. This system allows users to power equipment at work or campsites without needing a generator.
Stacking up
In terms of towing and payload, the Ranger PHEV retains the Ranger’s 3,500kg braked towing capacity while surpassing competitors with a higher payload—973kg in the XLT variant. It also features advanced trailer assist technologies such as Pro Trailer Back-Up Assist and Trailer Light Check, which enhance safety and convenience during towing.
“We know how important carrying and towing heavy loads is to our Ranger customers, so this was a top priority in the development of Ranger PHEV,” Ford Ranger PHEV Chief Program Engineer Phil Millar said.
“But there is more to safe towing and hauling ability than numbers on a spec sheet – we’ve also ensured Ranger PHEV comes fitted with class-leading technology like our integrated trailer brake controller.
“Beyond just a simple trailer brake controller, the Ranger PHEV’s system is fully integrated with the rest of its active safety suite, meaning features like the electronic stability control factor in the trailer’s brakes and activate them as necessary.”
The Ranger PHEV introduces new design elements, including a unique electronic fuel filler release system to manage vapour during periods when the engine isn’t running, and a new charge port design. Additionally, it includes an Acoustic Vehicle Alert System to alert pedestrians when driving in silent EV modes.