Ford PHEV Ranger – In a landmark move for South Africa’s automotive sector, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has officially rolled out its first-ever Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Ranger from its Silverton Assembly Plant. This bold step comes after a staggering R5.2 billion upgrade to the Pretoria-based facility, allowing it to manufacture up to 200 PHEV Rangers per day. The launch of this hybrid bakkie not only signals Ford’s commitment to sustainable mobility but also positions South Africa as a global player in the green vehicle manufacturing space. The project is a culmination of years of investment, planning, and re-engineering at the Silverton facility. This is Ford’s first hybrid model produced on South African soil, and it’s being hailed as a game-changer for the local economy and export market. With hybrid and electric vehicle demand rising globally, this move opens the door to fresh international trade routes, especially with Europe and Australia showing increasing interest in eco-friendly bakkies. Ford’s R5.2 billion investment has been channeled into advanced manufacturing technologies, energy-efficient assembly lines, and improved worker facilities. The company’s decision to produce the Ranger PHEV locally is also expected to create over 1,200 new jobs directly at the plant and thousands more across the supply chain. Additionally, Ford’s latest investment strengthens its partnership with the South African government’s Automotive Master Plan, which seeks to boost manufacturing competitiveness and sustainability. Let’s take a closer look at how Ford’s PHEV Ranger rollout is reshaping South Africa’s automotive future.
Ford’s R5.2 Billion Plant Upgrade: Key Features and Goals
Ford’s massive investment is aimed at turning its Silverton facility into a world-class hub for hybrid vehicle production. Here’s what the upgrade includes:
- Fully automated body shop with robotic welding
- State-of-the-art PHEV battery integration facility
- Solar-powered energy systems for sustainable operations
- Expanded assembly lines with hybrid-specific tooling
- Enhanced worker training programs
- Water recycling systems to reduce plant wastage
- Logistics optimization for export-bound vehicles
Plant Upgrade: Infrastructure and Capacity Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | R5.2 billion |
| New Production Capacity | 200 PHEV Rangers per day |
| Facility Location | Silverton, Pretoria |
| Employment Generated | 1,200+ direct jobs |
| Power Source | 35% solar-based |
| Battery Integration Line | Fully automated and in-house |
| Export Readiness | Europe, Australia, New Zealand |
What Makes the Ranger PHEV Unique?
The Plug-in Hybrid Ranger combines rugged performance with modern eco-conscious technology. It delivers everything South Africans love about a bakkie, but with lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency.
- 2.3L EcoBoost petrol engine + electric motor
- 45 km all-electric range on battery alone
- Combined power output of over 270kW
- Regenerative braking system
- Dual-mode charging: standard plug & fast charge
- 1-ton payload and 3,500kg towing capacity
- Infotainment with Ford SYNC 4 and hybrid tracking
Ranger PHEV vs Regular Ranger: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Ranger PHEV | Regular Ranger |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Petrol + Electric Hybrid | Petrol or Diesel |
| Fuel Efficiency | 30-40% better | Standard |
| EV Range | 45 km (electric-only) | N/A |
| Charging Options | Standard & Fast Charge | N/A |
| CO2 Emissions | Significantly lower | Higher |
| Torque Output | Higher (instant torque via motor) | Lower |
| Technology | Smart hybrid dashboard & battery mgmt | Standard SYNC |
Economic Impact: Job Creation and Export Potential
This isn’t just an automotive story—it’s an economic transformation. The upgraded plant brings job security, skill development, and export revenue into the spotlight.
- Over 1,200 jobs created at Silverton plant
- Thousands more in the supplier and logistics ecosystem
- New training initiatives for hybrid manufacturing roles
- Boost in local battery assembly and energy tech firms
- Major export contracts signed with Europe and Australia
- Increase in local raw material sourcing for parts
- Estimated R20 billion in export earnings by 2027
Expected Economic Outcomes by 2026
| Sector | Impact (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Employment | +12,000 (direct + indirect) |
| Export Revenue | R20 billion/year |
| Supplier Contracts | 300+ local vendors onboarded |
| Skills Development | 2,000 workers upskilled in EV tech |
| Raw Material Usage | 60% sourced locally |
| Investment Return | Expected break-even by 2028 |
| Government Incentives | Benefitting from APDP & MIDP |
Government Support and Public-Private Partnerships
The rollout was made possible by extensive collaboration with government departments, most notably under the South African Automotive Master Plan (SAAM). Ford has worked closely with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and other agencies to align with clean energy goals and job creation mandates.
Role of South African Government in the Project
- Provided infrastructure development support
- Offered tax rebates and import duty concessions
- Supported upskilling via SETA training programs
- Ensured fast-track environmental clearances
- Partnered in logistics infrastructure development
Why This Matters for South African Consumers
For local consumers, the Ranger PHEV represents the best of both worlds: performance and efficiency. As fuel prices remain volatile and environmental consciousness grows, a hybrid bakkie fits the bill perfectly.
- Long-term fuel savings up to 40%
- Reduced maintenance with electric components
- Access to green car rebates and incentives
- Future-ready vehicle for urban and rural use
- Enhanced safety and tech features
- Supportive nationwide Ford service network
Pricing and Availability Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting Price (Expected) | R799,000 |
| Launch Date (SA Market) | October 2025 |
| Available Models | XLT, Wildtrak Hybrid |
| Warranty | 5 years / 120,000 km |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years / 160,000 km |
| Charging Time (Fast) | ~45 minutes to 80% |
| Booking Start Date | August 2025 |
| Dealership Support | All major metro cities |
Department Contact Details for Queries and Support
For consumers, investors, and suppliers who wish to get in touch with relevant authorities or Ford directly, here are the key contact points:
Ford South Africa – Silverton Plant Contact
- Address: Simon Vermooten Road, Silverton, Pretoria, Gauteng 0184
- Phone: +27 12 842 2000
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.ford.co.za
Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC)
- Address: 77 Meintjies Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria
- Phone: +27 12 394 9500
- Email: [email protected]
- EV Program Desk: [email protected]
- Website: www.thedtic.gov.za
Ford’s Vision for Green Manufacturing in Africa
The launch of the Ranger PHEV is just the beginning of a broader plan. Ford aims to increase the share of EV and PHEV production in South Africa from 0% to at least 25% by 2030. Plans are underway to expand battery facilities, collaborate with local universities for research, and develop public charging infrastructure in partnership with Eskom and private energy players.
Upcoming Green Initiatives by Ford
- EV training academies in Gauteng and Eastern Cape
- Rooftop solar installation expansion for 60% energy independence
- PHEV version of the Everest SUV by late 2026
- Fast-charging stations along N1 and N4 highways
- Pilot recycling program for used lithium-ion batteries
Ford’s move to introduce a locally manufactured hybrid Ranger marks a historic pivot in South Africa’s automotive narrative. With strong government backing, consumer interest, and export potential, this is more than just a vehicle—it’s a roadmap toward a sustainable, job-rich, and globally competitive future for the country.
FAQs of Ford PHEV Ranger
Q1. What is the starting price of the Ford Ranger PHEV in South Africa?
The expected base price is R799,000, with official prices to be confirmed by August 2025.
Q2. How far can the PHEV Ranger go on electric power only?
It offers up to 45 km of all-electric range, ideal for city commuting.
Q3. Where is the Ranger PHEV manufactured?
It is built at Ford’s upgraded Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, Gauteng.
Q4. Is this model eligible for any government incentives or rebates?
Yes, green vehicle incentives under the Automotive Production and Development Programme (APDP) may apply.
Q5. When will bookings open for the Ford Ranger PHEV?
Bookings will begin in August 2025 across all Ford dealerships in South Africa.
