Ford Ranger PHEV Development Update as Competition Intensifies

UPDATE: Ford has officially unveiled the Ranger PHEV in Germany!

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Ford has reached a significant milestone with the production of its 1000th prototype, a Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), at its New Model Programs (NMP) facility in Melbourne. As the mid-size ute segment heats up with competitors like the upcoming BYD Shark PHEV, Ford is positioning the Ranger PHEV to stand out by combining power, sustainability, and versatility.

The Ranger PHEV, which pairs a 2.3-litre Ford EcoBoost turbo petrol engine with an electric motor, offers an all-electric range of over 45 kilometres, designed for urban driving with zero tailpipe emissions. It retains a 3,500 kg braked towing capacity and features Ford’s Pro Power Onboard™ system, which provides onboard power outlets for additional utility. This hybrid flexibility positions the Ranger PHEV as a strong contender against hybrid utes like the BYD Shark, which is set to launch in Australia between late 2024 and early 2025.

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The BYD Shark PHEV offers a plug-in hybrid system with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine and dual electric motors, producing over 321 kW of power. It provides an electric-only driving range of up to 100 kilometres, more than double the Ranger’s electric range, and a total hybrid range of 840 kilometres. However, the Shark’s braked towing capacity of 2.5 tonnes falls short of the Ranger’s 3.5 tonnes, which gives the Ranger an advantage for buyers who prioritize heavy-duty towing capacity.

Both the Ranger PHEV and BYD Shark PHEV offer advanced technological features and eco-friendly powertrains, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Ranger PHEV is better suited for drivers who need robust towing and off-road capabilities, while the Shark appeals to those seeking a longer electric-only range and high performance. The two utes will compete directly in Australia’s rapidly growing plug-in hybrid market, and Ford's focus on utility and hybrid versatility ensures the Ranger remains a strong option as the competition intensifies.

Since last year, Ford's product development teams have been conducting engineering tests on Ranger PHEV prototypes built at NMP. The model is part of Ford's commitment to expanding its electrified line-up, joining other electric and hybrid vehicles like the Mach-E and E-Transit.

More details about the Ranger PHEV will be announced at the IAA Transportation show in Hanover, Germany.