The launch of the all-new Ford Ranger PHEV is currently underway in places like Europe and Australia, where customers can now purchase the very first electrified version of that mid-size pickup. However, there are plenty of folks that have expressed interest in the Ranger PHEV that don’t reside in those parts of the world, including North America, where hybrids remain as red hot with consumers as ever. Thus, it would make perfect sense for the Ford Ranger PHEV to be sold in the states, at the very least, but it doesn’t appear that it will be – at least, not anytime soon.
A recent sighting of a Ford Ranger PHEV prototype in Colorado by CarBuzz wearing Michigan plates sparked quite a lot of suspicion that the electrified pickup could be on track for a U.S. release, but the automaker was quick to point out that this won’t be the case. “The all-new Ford Ranger PHEV is only available for select global markets outside of North America, where we are seeing stronger demand this powertrain,” a spokesperson stated. “For customers in North America looking for a hybrid or electric truck, we currently offer Maverick Hybrid, F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid and F-150 Lightning.”
The fact that Ford has a Ranger PHEV driving around U.S. soil isn’t terribly surprising, even if it doesn’t intend to sell that particular model in the states, as we’ve seen this sort of thing on multiple occasions in the past. In fact, Ford Authority has spotted a large number of Blue Oval models that aren’t part of the automaker’s U.S. lineup on public roads there over the years, including the Ford Ranger Super Duty and Puma ST, to name just a couple.
While the Ford Ranger PHEV has fewer miles of EV driving range and a smaller battery than its competitors in Australia, the electrified pickup makes up for that with superior towing and hauling capabilities, making it a prime target for those that need a mid-size pickup that’s both economical and capable. That’s precisely why it’s replacing one diesel Ranger in Australia’s lineup, too.
Comments
Just as well, Ford PHEV’s are very unreliable and troublesome.
I have to disagree with the author concerning the US hybrid and PHEV market. Yes, hybrids are hot and PHEVs, at 2% of the new vehicle sales, are not. Customers wanting an electrified Ranger should wait on Ford’s low cost EV platform truck.