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The future of onboard power solutions and the Ranger PHEV
Words Tim van Duyl Pics Supplied
Hema Maps Creative Director Tim van Duyl shares his thoughts on the new Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) as we move towards our electrified future.
Ford has shared some details about the new Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). While specifics like GCM, price and performance remain sparse, there’s plenty to unpack.
What is the Ranger PHEV?
The Ranger PHEVs are new variants in Australia’s most popular vehicle that integrate an electric motor at the gearbox and a battery bank beneath the tub, enhancing both performance and efficiency. The PHEV provides the option to use the battery as a mobile 230V power source, featuring three outlets capable of delivering a combined output of 6.9kW from its 11.8kWh battery.
At launch, four variants will be available across three trim levels: XLT, Sport, Wildtrak and a new Stormtrak model with exclusive colours and trims. All variants will use a 2.3L inline four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine paired with a 10-speed automatic gearbox and a two-speed transfer case for four-wheel drive capabilities.
While power and torque ratings for the petrol engine are yet to be officially announced, the electric motor will deliver up to 75kW, enabling an electric-only driving range of up to a claimed 45km. The 2.3L petrol engine is new to the Ranger but not the platform it shares with Volkswagen. In the Amarok Aventura, the same engine provides up to 222kW and 452Nm, which if combined to the 75kW e-motor would make for a rapid Ranger.
The Ranger PHEV retains 4WD with a low-range transfer case, carries a maximum 800mm wading depth and shares the maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg with other 4WD Rangers.
Pricing expectations
While Ford hasn't officially announced pricing, PHEV variants of other vehicles typically add $7500–15,000. If the Ranger PHEV is priced at the higher end, we might see figures around $83,000 for the XLT, $86,000 for the Sport and approximately $90,000 for the Wildtrak, with the Stormtrak likely the first Ranger to exceed six figures with ORCs.
Towing capacity insights
Though GCM, GVM and kerb weights are still unknown, we can make some educated guesses. Ford UK’s specs suggest a GVM potentially higher than other Rangers sold there, possibly reaching around 3400kg with a payload of about 1000kg. If our PHEV follows suit, the GCM could reach up to 6400kg.
Locally, braked towing capacity remains at 3500kg, though if you do the sums with my guesstimates above, you will likely want to limit towing to 3000kg unless you plan to drive solo with no load in the tub.
Mobile power bank capabilities
The Ranger PHEV’s 11.8kWh battery is substantial. If you are running a 750W cement mixer, expect 15 hours of run time. If you are a chippie, it will run a 2000W DeWALT table saw for six hours, under constant load — you’ll never do that. Most tradies will never run the battery empty from full in an eight-hour day.
It will also power a caravan or camper with mains power. Your Ranger PHEV could charge trailer batteries and run its 230V appliances, like AC, for hours … which raises a question: Do you still need a dedicated power system in your canopy with the Ranger PHEV?
Cost comparison: Ranger PHEV v Canopy Power System
Investing in a Ranger PHEV could be more economical than setting up a high-end canopy power system. A comprehensive canopy setup could cost between $9000 and $12,000, whereas matching the Ranger PHEV’s capabilities (meeting that battery capacity and output) would require significantly more investment while eating up your payload.
Charging the Ranger PHEV
You can charge the Ranger PHEV using a standard 230V 10A outlet, which Ford suggests will take “overnight” (around eight hours). However, it’s more likely you’ll charge the battery while driving or when parked.
When stationary, you can employ the vehicle as a mobile generator, and there are four selectable Drive Modes that manage energy usage and regeneration:
- Auto EV: Optimises fuel efficiency by collecting energy during deceleration and using it when accelerating.
- EV Now: Operates in electric-only mode with a range of up to 45km. This range may decrease when towing but it allows for silent parking which is great for your neighbours and communication.
- EV Later: Helps conserve battery power while driving, useful for arriving at your destination with some charge remaining.
- EV Charge: Focuses on charging the battery to full.
- These modes give you flexibility in how you use and recharge the vehicle’s battery.
Hybrid fuel efficiency considerations
While it’s uncertain whether fuel savings will offset the higher purchase price, the PHEV is expected to use about 10% less fuel than its non-hybrid counterparts. Assuming a fuel consumption near 15L/100km from the 2.3L petrol-turbo in urban settings, the PHEV may approach the efficiency of diesel alternatives.
Strong performance expectations
The 2.3L engine in the VW delivers 222kW so the Ranger PHEV could nearly reach a combined 300kW, but my guess would be it will be kept lower than the almighty Ranger Raptor’s 292kW.
Expect a smoother and quieter experience compared to diesel models, with impressive acceleration both with and without a trailer thanks to the instant torque from the electric motor.
Like all Rangers it will handle exceptionally well for a ute. Due to its placement under the tub, the added weight of the battery pack (estimated at 80–120kg) may improve its ride quality when unloaded.
Availability
With advertising already underway, deliveries are expected in Q1 2025. For now, interested buyers can register to receive more information through Ford Australia directly or a Ford dealer.
The Ranger PHEV promises to be a versatile addition to the lineup, catering to both towing needs and mobile power solutions for adventurers and tradespeople alike.
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