Ford fans in North America eagerly anticipating the Ranger PHEV will have to wait, as a recent report confirms the plug-in hybrid model won’t be coming to Canada or the U.S. “any time soon.” While the Ranger PHEV is set to launch in markets like Australia, Europe, and New Zealand, Ford is focusing on pure internal combustion engine (ICE) versions for North America, at least for the immediate future. This decision reflects Ford’s current market strategy, though the company remains open to reconsidering based on consumer demand.
Ford’s head of Global Trucks, Sondra Phung, emphasized that while there are no immediate plans for the Ranger PHEV in North America, Ford is closely monitoring consumer interest. “But if we see there is demand for a Ranger, we would absolutely consider it,” Phung stated, highlighting the company’s flexibility. Ford believes its existing portfolio of hybrid vehicles adequately serves the Canadian and U.S. markets for now. However, this doesn’t mean electrification is off the table for the Ranger in the long term.
While the Ranger PHEV is not on the horizon, Ford is committed to electrifying its ICE-focused Ford Blue lineup by 2030. This initiative includes plans for a hybrid variant of the Ranger, which could be a traditional hybrid or an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Ford is actively developing EREV technology for multiple models, signaling a strong push towards more electrified options. Additionally, Ford is working on a low-cost all-electric platform that will debut with a mid-size pickup, potentially a future electric Ranger.
Ford CEO Jim Farley has identified smaller pickups and crossovers as the “sweet spot” for electric power, given the current state of battery technology. This strategic focus suggests that while the Ranger PHEV may not arrive soon, North American consumers can expect to see electrified Ranger options in the future. Ford’s commitment to electrification, combined with its willingness to respond to market demand, ensures that the Ranger will remain a relevant and competitive mid-size pickup in the years to come.
