2025 Ford Ranger PHEV Ute: Australian Milestone Achieved in Development

Ford Australia has announced a significant milestone in the development of its upcoming 2025 Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV) ute, marking a new chapter in the iconic vehicle's history.

Key Points:

1. The first Australian-built Ford Ranger PHEV prototype has been completed at Ford's Victorian Development Centre.
2. This prototype will undergo extensive local testing to ensure it meets Australian conditions and customer expectations.
3. The Ranger PHEV is set to launch in 2025, with production in South Africa and Thailand.

Powertrain Details:

• 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine
• Electric motor
• Estimated system output: 362hp (270kW) and 680Nm of torque
• Pure electric range: Approximately 45km

Australian Development:

Ford Australia's team is playing a crucial role in the Ranger PHEV's development:

• Local engineering and development work
• Rigorous testing in various Australian conditions
• Tuning for Australian customer preferences and driving conditions

Market Significance:

The Ranger PHEV will be one of the first plug-in hybrid utes available in Australia, potentially setting a new standard in the popular ute segment. It aims to offer improved fuel efficiency without compromising on the capability that Ranger customers expect.

Challenges and Expectations:

While the PHEV technology promises benefits in terms of efficiency and performance, Ford will need to ensure the new powertrain meets the durability and reliability standards set by its diesel counterparts. The relatively short electric-only range may also be a point of discussion among potential buyers.The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV represents a significant step in the electrification of Australia's popular ute segment. As development progresses, it will be interesting to see how this new powertrain option is received by traditional ute buyers and fleet operators alike.