Ford has already electrified two of its trucks by rolling out a hybrid version of the compact Maverick and a plug-in hybrid version of the fullsize F-150. The latter is also available in a Lightning configuration, which takes out the internal combustion engine altogether for a fully electric pickup. In a little over three weeks from now, the midsize Ranger will be electrified as well.
A new teaser released today by the Blue Oval announces the world premiere of the hotly anticipated Ranger will take place on November 24 ahead of the market launch set for sometime next year. Ford has been coy regarding the technical specifications, but it has alluded a hybrid powertrain is in the offing considering all of its commercial vehicles sold in Europe will be electrified by 2024.
We’ve heard through the grapevine the next-generation Ranger will boast a plug-in hybrid powertrain, presumably with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine at its core. The four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline mill is expected to work together with an electric motor and deliver an estimated combined output of 362 horsepower and 680 Newton-meters (502 pound-feet) of torque. However, take this info with the proverbial pinch of salt as no specs have been confirmed thus far.
Another piece of the puzzle that’s currently missing is whether the PHEV option will be available from day one or if Ford is planning to introduce the hybrid Ranger at a later date. It certainly won’t be coming to Europe later than 2024, and with 2021 being almost over, it means you should be able to buy the midsize pickup truck with a plug-in hybrid setup on the Old Continent within the next two years.
Being a plug-in hybrid, it should have a decent battery size providing an unspecified amount of electric range. Needless to say, loading the cargo bed will dramatically reduce its efficiency, but for trips around town without carrying bulky items, it could have a decent zero-emissions range. For long distances, you’ll be better off with a diesel, likely a four-cylinder with two turbos and a bigger V6.
We’re going to have to wait and see whether the engineers have implemented mild-hybrid technology in the non-PHEV versions for greater efficiency. Many of Ford’s passenger cars already have a 48V system, but it’s unclear if the 2022 Ranger will have it as well. We will have all the juicy details later this month.
Source: Ford
