Ford has been working on revitalizing the Ranger for a little while now. And while it’s nearly time to hit the shelves as a 2022 model, the brand might still have some surprises left for it. There are reports of a plug-in hybrid option for future Rangers.

According to a report by Australian network Car Expert, a spokesperson for Ford of Europe claimed that a Ranger with zero emission capabilities would hit the EU markets by 2024. This aligns with Ford’s previous remarks to commit to every model having a zero emission option by 2026.

While powertrain details were not provided, Car Expert predicts that it will use a plug-in hybrid system, keeping the 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 combustion engine in while offering an electrical toggle for lower-powered driving. With pickup trucks often needing to cart heavy loads, retaining the horsepower of a combustion engine while still offering a zero emission feature would strike an appealing balance.

The upcoming Ranger is said to share a platform with the Bronco as well. So whatever options we see for the pickup can realistically be expected for the SUV, too.

Whether any of this comes to the States also remains to be seen. We aren't even 100% sure it will be a plug in hybrid or not. Until we get an official confirmation by Ford, take this information with a grain of salt.

I’d love an affordable, all-electric, mid to small sized pickup, myself. But I’ll take what I can get.