Plug-in hybrid pickups take a step forward with Ford confirming its new Ranger PHEV.

The PHEV drivetrain will be available in Wildtrak, Sport and XLT Rangers, and Ford is introducing a PHEV-exclusive Stormtrak launch edition. The limited-run vehicle features a new Chill Grey paint colour, the practical Flexible Rack System5 and a luxurious cabin with unique finishes.

The new model offers the same towing, payload and off-road performance as other Rangers along with electric-only driving ability, strengthening Ford’s leadership of the pickup market in Australia and New Zealand.

Ranger PHEV combines a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine with a 75kW electric motor (e-motor) and 11.8kWh (usable) battery boosting the off-road and towing capability that Ranger owners need for work and play.

The ability to provide smooth, electric-only driving for a targeted range of more than 45km enhances the on-road appeal of the latest Ranger model.

Ranger PHEV also introduces Pro Power Onboard2 to the Ranger line-up, enabling customers to power up to a maximum of 6.9kW of tools directly from the onboard battery rather than needing a generator.

“The Ranger PHEV delivers the benefits of electrification together with the hard-working performance that has built Ranger a loyal customer base in Australia and New Zealand. We ensured our first PHEV pickup in Australia and New Zealand would be a hugely capable tool for work and off-roading, as well as a smart vehicle with the tech, connectivity and EV-only capability for family life,” said Andrew Birkic, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand.

The Ranger PHEV will be produced in Silverton, South Africa, with initial customer deliveries expected in 2025.