Ford has presented the results of tests on the new Ranger Plug-In Hybrid, stating that for many owners, the pickup will be able to completely replace a portable gasoline generator. This refers to the version with the Pro Power Onboard system, which allows the vehicle to be used as a mobile power source.

Tests were conducted at the Ford engineering center in Dunton (UK). Specialists compared the operation of the 6.9 kW Pro Power Onboard system with a conventional 4 kW gasoline generator, which is often used on construction sites, during events, and in places without access to the power grid.

During the tests, both power sources performed identical tasks: charging power tool batteries, powering heaters, an electric kettle, and other equipment designed for continuous operation.

According to Ford, the hybrid pickup proved to be more efficient in almost all key indicators. The company claims that the generator emitted significantly more nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and unburned hydrocarbons. In some scenarios, nitrogen oxide emissions were more than 9000 times higher, and carbon monoxide emissions exceeded those of the Ranger PHEV by more than 1200 times.

The manufacturer explains this difference by the fact that the vehicle is equipped with a modern exhaust gas treatment system, catalytic converters, and electronic engine control, whereas most portable generators do not meet such strict environmental requirements.

The difference in fuel consumption was no less noticeable. Ford tested the pickup with a fully charged battery, with a discharged battery and a cold engine, and after the power unit warmed up. In all cases, the Ranger PHEV, according to the company, consumed less fuel than a separate generator, while delivering the same 4 kW of power. After the hybrid system reached operating mode, fuel consumption was approximately three times lower.

However, these results are currently based solely on Ford's internal tests and have not yet been confirmed by independent studies. Nevertheless, the idea of using a pickup truck simultaneously as a vehicle and a powerful mobile power source is becoming increasingly popular. Similar systems are already offered by some other manufacturers.

It is worth noting that the Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid is intended for the European, UK, and Australian markets. The company has not yet announced plans to introduce this version to the North American market.

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