Tag Archives: Ford

News

Plug-In Ford Ranger Brings Off-Grid Power to Global Markets

Ford’s innovative Pro Power Onboard system, originally highlighted as a standout feature on the all-electric F-150 Lightning, is no longer exclusive to the full-size EV. The automaker is now bringing similar off-grid practicality to a more compact and globally accessible truck: the plug-in hybrid Ford Ranger. There’s just one catch — it’s not coming to America.

While U.S. truck buyers continue to wait for electrified versions of the mid-size Ranger, customers in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and other select international markets already have access to a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. The electrified Ranger combines a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four with an 11.8 kWh battery pack, delivering a combined 277 horsepower (281 PS) and a modest 26 miles (42 km) of pure electric driving range.

That range figure might not set records — especially when compared to newer plug-in SUVs — but for tradespeople, adventurers, and fleet operators, it’s what the Ranger can do with its battery that makes it especially appealing.

The secret weapon? Ford’s Pro Power Onboard — a bi-directional charging system that lets owners tap into the truck’s battery to run everything from power tools to laptops, or even small appliances when off the grid. While such functionality is becoming more common among EVs, it remains a rarity in the plug-in hybrid space.

European Ranger buyers can spec the feature in two output levels. The entry-level €1,350 ($1,560) system delivers up to 2.3 kW of usable power, while the more robust €2,000 ($2,310) version cranks out a total of 6.9 kW. The high-output option includes a 10A outlet in the cab for lighter equipment and dual 15A sockets in the truck bed — perfect for running multiple devices or heavier-duty tools simultaneously.

Operation is straightforward: the system is inactive by default, offering just 400W via the rear cabin outlet. But pressing the dedicated Generator button activates full power, allowing users to manage output directly through the SYNC 4 infotainment screen. Should the battery deplete too far while powering external devices, the truck’s petrol engine automatically kicks in to maintain current — effectively turning the Ranger into a mobile generator.

It’s a compelling setup, especially for tradespeople who frequently operate in remote locations, or weekend warriors looking to bring creature comforts to the campsite. It also underscores how Ford is taking practical steps to blur the line between work truck and power station.

Yet, despite this smart tech and the growing interest in hybrid trucks, Ford has not announced any plans to bring the plug-in Ranger — or its Pro Power Onboard system — to North America. U.S. customers can’t even get it on the smaller Maverick hybrid, which otherwise seems like a perfect candidate.

The omission leaves a gap in Ford’s U.S. lineup — one that seems increasingly hard to justify as rivals race to electrify mid-size and compact trucks. Until that changes, American buyers will have to admire this plug-in Ranger from afar, while the rest of the world gets to enjoy the perks of silent running — and silent charging — in the wild.

Source: Ford

News

Bronco Sport Just Had a Terrible Month—Here’s Why That Matters

Ford’s rugged Bronco lineup is having a strong 2025—at least for the most part. While the larger Bronco continues to surge in popularity, its smaller sibling, the Bronco Sport, hit an unexpected roadblock in July.

Through the first seven months of the year, the Bronco Sport has been on a healthy upward trajectory. Sales are up 13.9 percent compared to 2024, with 83,376 units sold so far in 2025—an encouraging climb from the 73,203 units sold over the same period last year. But July told a very different story.

Last month, Bronco Sport sales plunged 18.7 percent year-over-year, with just 10,938 units sold compared to 13,449 in July 2024. The drop is particularly surprising given the model’s overall success this year and the broader strength of Ford’s SUV lineup.

In fact, the Bronco Sport was one of the only mainstream Ford models to post a monthly decline, alongside the compact Maverick pickup. Other nameplates, particularly in the large SUV segment, showed serious momentum. The Explorer posted a robust 46.2 percent jump with 18,837 units sold in July, and the Expedition climbed an even higher 50.9 percent with 7,518 units. But the real standout was the full-size Bronco, which surged 55 percent year-over-year to 13,798 sales—eclipsing its smaller sibling’s tally for the month.

The Bronco’s rise isn’t just a one-month wonder. Year-to-date, the flagship off-roader is up a massive 45 percent, growing from 59,054 units sold through July of 2024 to 85,861 so far in 2025. It’s a reminder that while some buyers might be swayed by compact crossovers with rugged aesthetics, many are still craving true off-road capability—and they’re finding it in the Bronco.

Meanwhile, over at Lincoln, Ford’s luxury division is having a more mixed year. The Corsair crossover continues to slide, down 16.2 percent for July and 1 percent on the year. The Nautilus is faring slightly better with a 3.3 percent year-to-date increase, but it too suffered a July decline of 11.5 percent. Fortunately, the Aviator provided a rare bright spot, skyrocketing 298.4 percent to 1,470 units for the month—up from just 369 in July of last year.

Despite the Bronco Sport’s rocky month, Ford’s overall SUV momentum remains strong. But the segment’s volatility is on full display. Even strong year-to-date performers can’t rest easy—especially when consumer preferences shift as fast as the terrain the Bronco was built to conquer.

Source: Ford

News

Classic Recreations Files for Bankruptcy Amid Mounting Debts and Uncertain Future

Classic Recreations, a company once hailed as a premier name in high-end Ford Mustang restomods, has found itself in serious financial turmoil. Known for their jaw-dropping builds featuring carbon fiber bodies, modernized powertrains, and meticulously crafted interiors, the Oklahoma-based outfit has officially filed for bankruptcy after amassing millions in debt.

The news surfaced via the Eleanor Mustang Fan Club, which uncovered bankruptcy filings indicating the company’s dire financial position. It marks a stunning reversal of fortune for a brand that once commanded nearly $300,000 per vehicle for its bespoke creations.

Classic Recreations had built its reputation by operating under an official license from Shelby American, crafting modern interpretations of legendary models like the Shelby GT500CR. However, that licensing agreement has recently come to an end—a move that may have played a role in the company’s downturn.

Despite the current financial crisis, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon. The company has appointed Pete Vanderveen as its “turnaround expert,” a title that suggests strategic restructuring may already be underway. Vanderveen’s role will be to navigate the complex web of creditor negotiations, manage the company’s assets, and—if possible—steer the brand back to solvency.

Whether Classic Recreations will continue operations during the restructuring remains unclear. However, its situation serves as a stark reminder of how even well-regarded names in the growing restomod industry can face existential challenges.

In recent years, the market for premium restomods—vehicles that blend classic looks with modern performance—has expanded significantly. That boom fueled companies like Classic Recreations, who capitalized on nostalgia with contemporary performance, attracting collectors and enthusiasts alike.

As the dust settles, fans and creditors alike will be watching closely. The hope is that Vanderveen’s leadership can revive the company, preserve its legacy, and perhaps someday bring its iconic Mustangs roaring back to life.

Source: Eleanor Mustang Fan Club