Ford Puts Its Ranger PHEV to the Ultimate Test in Iceland
If you can withstand the harsh conditions of Iceland, you can survive anywhere – this is true for both people and cars. Ford recently put this theory to the test with the launch of its Ranger Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) in Iceland.
Ford debuted the Ranger PHEV, a dual-cab ute that’s built to go anywhere, in this rugged northern country. The American manufacturer invited guests to fly from Melbourne to Reykjavik, Iceland, to experience the new vehicle first-hand.
The Ranger PHEV is sold alongside the regular diesel versions of the Ranger in Australia. Despite being a hybrid, it promises the same unrivaled towing capacity, off-road capability, and livability. Furthermore, it can do plug-in hybrid things, such as drive solely on electric power, offer exportable electricity, and consume less fuel than a standard dual-cab. However, the extent of these capabilities is somewhat limited by its relatively small 11.8kWh lithium-ion drive battery.
But Ford assured us that the Ranger PHEV can still do ‘ute things’. This was demonstrated during the day-long drive in Iceland, both on- and off-road. The journey started in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city, and took us through barely-touched wilderness, small towns, and highways. We also had the chance to experience the vehicle’s new features, including the battery and electric motor pairing, which allows for both hybrid and EV driving.
Ford claims that the Ranger PHEV can travel up to 49km on electric power alone. However, during our test drive, we managed to cover only 33km with two passengers and minimal baggage onboard. Still, for those planning to travel around Iceland’s ring road without emitting any CO2, the Ranger PHEV is a worthy contender.
We also got the chance to test the Ranger PHEV’s towing capacity at Kleif Farm, located about 40 minutes north of Reykjavik. The Ranger successfully towed a trailer full of heavy hay bales around the property, demonstrating its strength as a workhorse.
Ford has also incorporated ‘Pro Power Onboard’ in the Ranger PHEV, a feature that provides exportable power in the form of two 15A power outlets built into the vehicle’s tub. These outlets can be used to power a wide array of tools, electronics, and camping equipment.
Despite the challenges of the Icelandic terrain, the Ranger PHEV performed impressively in our off-roading test. It handled river crossings, gravel tracks, and mountain ascents with ease, thanks to its four-wheel drive modes and underbody protection.
Overall, the Ford Ranger PHEV seems to be a welcome addition to the dual-cab ute market. While it may come at a higher price in Iceland, it still delivers on its promise to do ‘ute things’ while offering the benefits of a hybrid vehicle.
MORE: Explore the Ford Ranger showroom