Hybrid Ford Ranger
You know the old saying, `If wishes were horses, we’d all ride’? If hopeful Ford fans had their way, we’d be riding hybrid Ford Rangers.
Currently, the 2023 model of Ford’s popular Ranger pickup comes with a 2.3L EcoBoost® Engine & 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission, and comes in 3 trims; XL, XLT & Lariat, all of which come standard with a 4×2 drivetrain with availability to upgrade to 4×4.
But with a new 2024 Ford Ranger model on the horizon, folks have been clamoring for a Hybrid version of this mid-size versatile truck. While Ford has listened, they have not confirmed that one’s on the way with the 2024 model series being sold in the U.S. However, WhichCar.com reported last fall that Ford planned to launch a Ranger plug-in hybrid in Australia in 2024.
Why Australia? Ford Australia has promised to offer five electric vehicles by the end of 2024. If Ranger is one of them, it will join the Mustang Mach E, the Escape PHEV and two E-Transit van versions.
As is standard, there’s a lot of speculation flying around what’s on the horizon for Ford Ranger Hybrid. But WhichCar.com seems pretty confident that they’ve been able to uncover what kind of hybrid system the Ranger would use. They’re predicting that instead of a traditional battery-electric series hybrid, Ford will go with the plug-in set up with a larger battery, which provides longer electric driving range. WhichCar.com reports that Ford insiders point toward the plug-ins’ better efficiency and usability for dual-cab buyers. Then there’s the added bonus that a plug-ins larger battery can be used as auxiliary power for power tools and other accessories- a function Ford’s already incorporating on some of its other truck models, with a lot of positive response from buyers.
If you want to do a real deep-dive into Hybrid Ranger expected launch dates, TopElectric.com cites some insider sources that claim to have more information on when the electric models will hit which markets. Again, all speculation, but interesting to track. Most automotive industry experts agree a Hybrid Ranger will probably make the 2025 Ranger lineup here in the U.S.
So what IS on tap for Ranger 2024?
Ford CEO Jim Farley has confirmed that the new 2024 Ranger and Ranger Raptor models will go on sale this year, though Ford is keeping mum on exactly when.
This will be the Ranger Raptor’s first US release, which is big news since Farley says the next-gen Ranger Raptor is the most powerful Ranger Ford’s ever built. The global version has a twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost Engine paired with a 10-speed automatic and an anti-lag system. The Raptor is also equipped with 2.5 inch live valve internal bypass shock absorbers, electronically controlled locking differentials both front and rear, and has the added feature of a Trail Control system. You get seven drive modes and can select from four steering modes. You can even choose from four exhaust modes and three damper settings.
Keep an eye here for more details as they become available for the 2024 Ford Ranger and Ford Ranger Raptor, as well as any updates about Ford’s plans for the Ranger Hybrid. Until then, drop in to D’Orazio Ford at 1135 South Water Street in Wilmington, IL and test drive the mid-size Ranger pickup truck today!