Ford Ranger PHEV brings plug-in power to the popular pickup

• New plug-in hybrid engine for Ford Ranger pickup
• 275bhp and 3,500kg towing capacity
• Coming spring 2025

The Ford Ranger pickup truck has been electrified for 2025, thanks to a new plug-in hybrid engine option. Revealed at the IAA Transportation Show in Hanover, the Ranger PHEV pairs an EcoBoost petrol engine with an electric motor and battery for improved efficiency and performance, as well as the ability to act as an external power source for electric devices and tools.

The new Ranger PHEV has been a long time coming – Ford first announced its development back in 2023. Its arrival marks the first plug-in hybrid pickup to be sold in Europe, while rivals such as the Volkswagen Amarok and Toyota Hilux stick exclusively to diesel power. The Ranger was already our favourite pickup of the trio, and it remains to be seen whether the new PHEV system improves an already highly capable package.

What’s new for the Ford Ranger PHEV?

There’s only one change for the Ford Ranger PHEV – and it’s fairly obvious. Under the bonnet you’ll find a new plug-in hybrid system, using a 2.3-litre petrol engine, an 11.8kW battery and a single electric motor. All in, the system puts out 275bhp through an e-4WD system, which is only 13bhp shy of the nutty Ranger Raptor.

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More importantly, the Ranger PHEV has the highest torque figure of any Ranger, which should give it plenty of low down pulling power. Towing capacity stands at the maximum 3,500kg, which matches the diesel models.

Given that the Ranger is a fairly large vehicle, the 11.8kW battery can only muster up to 27 miles of electric-only range. While that’s some way off the latest and greatest plug-in family cars, it should be enough to drop the Ranger PHEV into a low benefit-in-kind tax bracket, potentially making it an affordable option for commercial drivers. Plus, that battery can be used to power external devices with up to 6.9kW of power, negating the need to lug a separate generator.

From the outside, you’ll only be able to spot a Ranger PHEV by the additional badges and charging port flap, although a unique Stormtrak trim level will be offered exclusively for the plug-in. This brings grey paintwork with decals, 18-inch alloy wheels, matrix LED headlights, a 10-speaker sound system and upgraded upholstery.

How much does the Ford Ranger PHEV cost and when can I buy one?

There’s no official pricing for the Ford Ranger PHEV yet, but with the new tech will come a higher price – entry-level models are expected to start at over £40,000 with VAT. That said, business drivers can expect a fairly low benefit-in-kind rate thanks to the Ranger PHEV’s electric driving mode. First deliveries are expected to begin in spring 2025.

Read our full review of the Ford Ranger and check out the best pickups you can buy today…