The first wave of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Ford Ranger models has officially been delivered to customers, marking a significant milestone for the automaker.
However, despite Ford’s Silverton assembly plant in South Africa producing up to 200 PHEV units daily, none of these models are set to hit local showrooms. The Silverton facility, which is the exclusive global manufacturing site for the Ranger PHEV, is dedicated to supplying export markets such as Australia and New Zealand. This marks the first time these regions will receive Rangers built in South Africa.
Local Launch Remains Uncertain
At the recent unveiling of the PHEV Ford Ranger to South African media, Minesh Bhagaloo, Director of Communications at Ford South Africa, confirmed that no official decision has been made regarding local availability.
Investment in Plant Upgrades
As part of the hybrid model’s production, Ford has constructed a dedicated battery assembly plant within the Silverton facility. This new section features a 1,376-square-meter assembly line and a 2,116-square-meter logistics warehouse. Each battery pack undergoes stringent quality checks before integration into the final assembly line.
Additional upgrades to accommodate PHEV production include enhancements to the stamping plant, body shop, and trim, chassis, and final assembly lines.
Powertrain and Performance
The Ranger PHEV is powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an 11.8kWh battery pack and a 75kW electric motor. This combination delivers a total output of 205kW and 690Nm of torque, distributed to all four wheels through a modular hybrid transmission.
While Ford’s Struandale plant in Gqeberha manufactures the traditional 2.0-liter single and bi-turbo diesel engines as well as the 3.0-liter V6 engines, the EcoBoost powertrains and the hybrid-integrated transmission are sourced internationally.
Key Features of the Ford Ranger PHEV
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost Turbo Petrol |
| Battery Capacity | 11.8kWh |
| Electric Motor | 75kW |
| Total Power Output | 205kW |
| Torque | 690Nm |
| Drive System | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Transmission | Modular Hybrid Transmission |
| Charging Port | Above right rear wheel arch |
| Load Bin Floor | Raised by 31mm to accommodate battery |
| Trim Levels | Various options available |
Design Differences
Though visually similar to conventional Rangers, the PHEV version features subtle distinctions. These include a charging socket flap positioned above the right rear wheel arch, unique PHEV branding on the front side panels, and a slightly raised load bin floor (31mm higher) to accommodate the battery pack.
A Major Step for Ford South Africa
Ockert Berry, Vice President of Operations at Ford South Africa, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “The addition of the high-tech new Ranger PHEV to our production portfolio is an important milestone in Ford’s manufacturing history in South Africa.” He also highlighted the Silverton plant’s role as a global hub for the Ranger lineup, exporting vehicles to over 100 markets worldwide.
Despite the excitement surrounding the new hybrid model, South African consumers will have to wait for confirmation on whether the PHEV Ranger will be made available locally.
Related article: Ford Ranger Super Duty Unveiling on 4 April: What to Expect from the New Models
