An electrified Addition to New Zealand’s Best-Selling Nameplate
Ford New Zealand has officially announced pricing and specifications for its first-ever electrified Ranger – the Ranger PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). Set to launch in mid-2025, this innovative addition to the Ranger lineup represents a significant milestone as the first time New Zealand’s best-selling nameplate will be offered with an electrified option.
Powerful Hybrid Powertrain With Impressive Efficiency
The Ranger PHEV combines a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine with a 75kW electric motor and an 11.8kWh (usable) battery. This hybrid powertrain delivers remarkable performance figures:
Maximum system power: 207kW at 4600 RPM. Maximum system torque: 697Nm at 2500 RPM. Engine maximum power: 138kW at 4600 RPM. Engine maximum torque: 411Nm at 2700 RPM
What’s particularly impressive is that this powerhouse offers more muscle than any of its diesel siblings while achieving a claimed combined fuel economy of just 2.8L/100km. The vehicle also features a 43km electric-only range and produces just 64g/km of CO2 emissions.
Pricing and Model Range
Ford will offer the Ranger PHEV in three variants at launch:
Ranger PHEV XLT – $82,990
Ranger PHEV Wildtrak – $89,990
Ranger PHEV Stormtrak (special launch edition) – $94,990
Innovative EV Drive Modes for Maximum Flexibility
One of the Ranger PHEV’s most compelling features is its four distinct EV drive modes, accessible via the “EV” button in the center console: Auto EV: The default mode that automatically selects between combustion engine and battery power to optimize performance and efficiency based on driving conditions. EV Now: Forces the vehicle to operate solely on electric power, providing an all-electric driving experience and maximum fuel savings. EV Later: Preserves the current battery charge for later use, ideal for saving battery power for specific situations like urban driving or powering equipment at a destination. EV Charge: Uses the combustion engine as a generator to recharge the high-voltage battery while driving, perfect for ensuring power availability when camping or working remotely.
As David Herbert, Marketing Manager for Commercial Vehicles in New Zealand, explains: “The power to unlock incredible fuel saving is in the hands of owners, with Ranger PHEV’s drive modes giving drivers the ability to complete entire trips without using the combustion engine or saving the battery for when it will be at its most efficient – such as slow stop-start traffic.”
Pro Power Onboard: Mobile Power Station
Perhaps one of the most revolutionary features of the Ranger PHEV is its Pro Power Onboard system, which comes standard on all New Zealand variants with the ‘high output’ 6.9kW system. This transforms the truck into a mobile power station with: One 10-amp, 2.3kW socket in the cabin. Two 15-amp, 3.45kW sockets in the tray.
Phil Millar, Chief Program Engineer for the Ford Ranger PHEV, highlights the significance of this feature: “Now instead of having to carry a heavy generator or batteries that take up precious room and can often be very noisy, a Ranger PHEV owner can plug virtually anything they might want to power directly into the vehicle itself.”
The system has been engineered for maximum convenience, functioning even when the vehicle is locked or plugged in to charge. If the battery depletes completely, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine automatically activates to keep everything running.
Uncompromised Capability: Towing and Payload
Ford has ensured the Ranger PHEV maintains the capability that Ranger customers expect: 3,500kg braked towing capacity. Up to 973kg payload (XLT model) – 180kg more than any other PHEV dual-cab currently available in New Zealand. Unique-to-PHEV loadbox design with tray length exceeding 1600mm, able to accommodate two European pallets. Gross Combined Mass (GCM) of 6580kg
The hybrid powertrain provides unique benefits when towing, such as exceptional launch capability from a standstill due to the additional torque from the electric motor – particularly useful when hauling heavy loads uphill.
Advanced towing technology is also standard, including an integrated trailer brake controller that works with the vehicle’s electronic stability control system, Trailer Light Check across all variants, and Pro Trailer Back-Up Assist on the Wildtrak and Stormtrak models.
Transmission and Four-Wheel Drive System
The Ranger PHEV features a new Modular Hybrid Transmission (MHT) that integrates the e-motor between the engine and transmission. This 10-speed automatic transmission incorporates regenerative braking to capture energy during deceleration that would otherwise be lost.
For off-road capability, the Ranger PHEV carries over the advanced full-time 4WD system first introduced with the 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel Ranger. This electronically controlled on-demand 2-speed transfer case offers 2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L modes, with 4A automatically varying power to the front wheels for optimum performance in all on-road conditions. A locking rear differential enhances off-road capability in challenging terrain.
Unique PHEV Features – The Ranger PHEV includes several unique design elements and features:
Electronic fuel filler release with vapor management system. Dedicated charging port on the passenger side with auto-lock function. Unique wheel design with wider dimensions and bespoke tires developed to handle the high-voltage battery weight while maintaining payload capacity. Acoustic Vehicle Alert System (AVAS) to warn pedestrians when operating silently in EV mode. High-voltage electric air conditioning and heating for optimal comfort, even when the petrol engine is off.
The Ford Ranger PHEV represents a significant step in the electrification of commercial vehicles in New Zealand. As Annaliese Atina, Managing Director of Ford New Zealand, states: “Our engineering and design team have created a plug-in hybrid that allows diesel ute buyers to begin their electrification journey without sacrificing any of the core capability that they need from a truck – whether they use it for work or play.”
With its powerful yet efficient hybrid powertrain, innovative features like Pro Power Onboard, and uncompromised capability, the Ranger PHEV offers a compelling option for businesses and individuals looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing utility. As part of Ford’s expanding commercial EV lineup, which will soon include E-Transit Custom and E-Transit, the Ranger PHEV marks just the beginning of Ford’s electrified commercial vehicle revolution in New Zealand.
