Ford has debuted its Ranger PHEV at the IAA show in Hanover, blazing a trail for plug-in-hybrid pickups.

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Arriving in spring 2025, it’s billed as a no-compromise model that teams up full Ranger towing, payload and off-road performance with electric-only driving ability.

The all-new powertrain pairs up Ford’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with a 102hp motor, an 11.8kWh (usable) battery and a 10‑speed automatic gearbox.

With 279hp on tap, it’s more powerful than a Ranger 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel while the 690Nm of torque is the highest of any production Ranger ever.

The Ranger PHEV also delivers an EV-only driving range of over 45km (27 miles) and offers drivers a choice of four modes: Auto EV, EV Now, EV Later or EV Charge. The battery, which is packaged between specially engineered frame rails, can be fully charged in less than four hours.

Despite its electric-only driving ability, the PHEV retains the Ranger’s payload up to one tonne, towing capability up to 3,500kg and off-road abilities from the latest e-4WD system, dual-range transfer box and rear differential lock.

The new PHEV pickup also introduces Pro Power Onboard to the Ranger line-up, enabling customers to use the battery as a mobile generator, powering up to 6.9kW of tools directly from the onboard battery.

Customers can also benefit from the electric motor’s regenerative braking and added torque for heavier loads and off-roading, and Ford has also revised the suspension tuning for on- and off-road performance.

The Ranger PHEV will be available in Wildtrak and XLT formats, along with a PHEV-exclusive Stormtrak launch edition that’s kitted out with 18-inch alloy wheels, honeycomb grille, Matrix LED headlamp, Pro Trailer Backup Assist and an upgraded cabin with 10-speaker B&O sound system.

The new model joins the existing diesel-powered Ranger line-up in Europe and is expected to deliver real-world fuel savings compared with Ranger’s higher-displacement V6 diesel engine option.

Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe, said: “The all-new Ranger PHEV delivers the benefits of electrification hand-in-hand with the hard-working performance that has built Ranger a loyal fanbase in Europe.

“We have perfected our first PHEV pickup in Europe to be a hugely capable tool for work and off-roading, as well as a premium vehicle with the comfort, connectivity and EV-only capability for family duties.”

The Ranger PHEV will be produced in Silverton, South Africa, and initial customer deliveries are expected from spring 2025.