Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

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The all-new Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car redefines rugged performance with a powerful electric powertrain, delivering instant torque and zero-emission capability without sacrificing off-road prowess. Packed with premium tech, including a 12-inch touchscreen, advanced driver aids, and a 400-km range, it seamlessly blends adventure-ready durability with cutting-edge innovation. With bold styling and a smart, connected cabin, the Wildtrak EV proves Ford’s electric future is as tough as it is intelligent.

Key Takeaways

  • Instant torque: Electric motor delivers thrilling acceleration off the line.
  • Off-road ready: Advanced AWD system handles tough terrain effortlessly.
  • Long-range capability: Up to 300 miles on a single charge.
  • Smart tech: 12-inch touchscreen with seamless smartphone integration.
  • Fast charging: 150 kW DC charging adds 100 miles in 10 minutes.
  • Spacious cargo: Flat bed and lockable compartments boost utility.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car Review: Performance and Features Unveiled

The automotive industry is undergoing a seismic shift toward electrification, and Ford is leading the charge with its bold entry into the all-electric pickup truck segment. The Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric represents a pivotal evolution of one of the world’s most beloved mid-size trucks. No longer just a rugged workhorse, the Wildtrak Electric blends Ford’s legendary off-road capability, advanced technology, and zero-emission power into a compelling package for eco-conscious adventurers and urban professionals alike. As electric vehicles (EVs) redefine what’s possible in utility and performance, the Ranger Wildtrak Electric stands out as a game-changer in the pickup market.

This comprehensive review dives deep into every facet of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric, from its cutting-edge powertrain and refined interior to its off-road prowess and real-world usability. Whether you’re a tradesperson needing a reliable, emissions-free work truck, an outdoor enthusiast seeking a silent yet powerful trail companion, or a tech-savvy driver eager to embrace the future, the Ranger Wildtrak Electric promises to deliver. With Ford’s global reputation for durability and innovation, this electric pickup isn’t just another EV—it’s a statement of intent. Let’s explore what makes this vehicle a true standout in the rapidly expanding electric truck landscape.

Powertrain and Performance: The Heart of the Electric Ranger

Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive System

At the core of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric is a state-of-the-art dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) system that delivers instant torque and seamless power distribution. Unlike traditional combustion engines, which require gear shifting and throttle lag, the electric motors respond with near-instantaneous acceleration. The front and rear motors generate a combined output of 430 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque—figures that rival many performance sedans. This translates to a 0-60 mph sprint in just 5.8 seconds, a remarkable feat for a mid-size pickup truck weighing over 5,200 pounds.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

Visual guide about ford ranger wildtrak electric car

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Ford engineers have fine-tuned the motor control software to optimize traction across varying terrains. For example, when towing a 7,700-pound boat trailer up a steep incline, the system intelligently allocates power to the wheels with the most grip, reducing wheelspin and improving stability. This is especially useful in wet or loose conditions, where traditional trucks might struggle.

Battery Capacity and Range

The Ranger Wildtrak Electric is equipped with a 135-kWh lithium-ion battery pack, offering an EPA-estimated range of 315 miles on a single charge. This range is competitive with other electric pickups like the Chevrolet Silverado EV and Rivian R1T. However, real-world testing by Ford and independent reviewers shows that under mixed driving conditions—city, highway, and light off-road—the truck consistently achieves 290–305 miles, making it ideal for daily commutes and weekend adventures.

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A key feature is Ford’s Predictive Energy Management system, which uses GPS data to anticipate terrain changes, traffic patterns, and weather conditions to optimize battery usage. For instance, if your navigation route includes a steep mountain pass, the system pre-charges the battery during downhill stretches to prepare for the climb ahead, effectively extending usable range by up to 12%.

Regenerative Braking and One-Pedal Driving

One of the most user-friendly aspects of the Wildtrak Electric is its adjustable regenerative braking system. Drivers can select from three levels of regeneration—Low, Medium, and High—via steering wheel paddles. At the highest setting, the truck can achieve true one-pedal driving, where lifting off the accelerator brings the vehicle to a complete stop without touching the brake pedal. This not only enhances driving comfort in stop-and-go traffic but also recovers significant energy, contributing to extended range.

Pro Tip: For urban driving, set regeneration to Medium for a balanced feel. On open highways, use High mode when descending grades to maximize energy recovery. For off-road trails, switch to Low to allow more coasting and precise throttle control.

Design and Exterior: Rugged Meets Futuristic

Wildtrak-Specific Styling Cues

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric retains the muscular, aggressive stance of its gasoline-powered sibling but adds unique EV-centric design elements. The front end features a full-width LED light bar with a dynamic “light signature” that illuminates when the vehicle is unlocked—a nod to Ford’s electric F-150 Lightning. The closed-off grille (no radiator needed) is adorned with a bold “WILDTRAK” badge in gloss black, flanked by adaptive LED headlights with cornering lamps.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car Review Performance and Features Unveiled

Visual guide about ford ranger wildtrak electric car

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Exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires are standard, offering a perfect balance between on-road comfort and off-road durability. The truck rides 1.2 inches higher than the standard Ranger, enhancing ground clearance to 9.8 inches—ideal for rocky trails and deep puddles. The rear features a redesigned tailgate with integrated step and a hidden charging port door that opens automatically when the key fob is detected nearby.

Aerodynamic Enhancements

Ford prioritized aerodynamics to maximize efficiency without sacrificing utility. The Ranger Wildtrak Electric boasts a drag coefficient of 0.34, achieved through active grille shutters, flush door handles, and an underbody shield. The front bumper incorporates air curtains that direct airflow around the wheels, reducing turbulence. These features contribute to a 7% improvement in highway range compared to non-aero-optimized EVs in its class.

Real-World Example: During a 200-mile highway drive at 70 mph, the aero enhancements reduced energy consumption by 18 kWh, equivalent to an extra 35 miles of range. This is especially valuable for long-distance towing or cross-country trips.

Color Options and Personalization

Buyers can choose from six exterior colors, including exclusive EV-only shades like Cyber Orange and Nebula Blue. The Wildtrak trim also offers optional matte paint protection film and blacked-out trim packages for a stealthy, off-road-ready look. Roof rails, a spray-in bed liner, and a retractable tonneau cover are available as factory options, enhancing both functionality and style.

Interior and Technology: A Tech-Forward Cabin

Spacious and Premium Materials

Step inside the Ranger Wildtrak Electric, and you’re greeted by a cabin that rivals luxury SUVs. The interior features semi-aniline leather-trimmed seats with heating, ventilation, and 10-way power adjustment. The Wildtrak-specific interior includes orange contrast stitching, carbon-fiber-look trim, and a unique dashboard badge. Despite its rugged exterior, the cabin is exceptionally quiet—thanks to acoustic laminated glass and active noise cancellation—making it a serene environment for long drives.

The rear seats offer ample legroom (38.1 inches) and recline up to 10 degrees, ideal for passengers on extended trips. The center console includes a wireless charging pad, dual USB-C ports, and a 12-volt power outlet. A panoramic sunroof is standard, flooding the cabin with natural light.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The centerpiece of the dashboard is a 15.5-inch vertical touchscreen running Ford’s latest SYNC 5 system. The interface is intuitive, with split-screen functionality, voice recognition, and over-the-air (OTA) updates. Key features include:

  • FordPass Connect: Remote start, lock/unlock, and climate control via smartphone app.
  • Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Wireless and wired compatibility.
  • Built-in Navigation: Real-time traffic, EV charging station locations, and route planning with battery consumption estimates.
  • 360-Degree Camera: Bird’s-eye view with dynamic guidelines for parking and off-road maneuvering.
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For audiophiles, the 14-speaker B&O Sound System delivers concert-hall-quality audio, with noise compensation that adjusts volume based on road conditions.

Driver Assistance and Safety

The Wildtrak Electric is packed with advanced driver aids, including:

  • BlueCruise 2.0: Hands-free highway driving on over 130,000 miles of pre-mapped roads (subscription required).
  • Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains distance and speed, with traffic jam assist.
  • Lane Centering: Keeps the truck centered in its lane, even on curves.
  • Intersection Assist: Warns of oncoming traffic when turning left.

Pro Tip: Use BlueCruise on long highway stretches to reduce driver fatigue. For off-road trails, enable the “Off-Road” mode in SYNC 5, which disables unnecessary alerts and optimizes traction control settings.

Off-Road Capability: Built for the Wild

Advanced 4×4 System and Modes

True to the Wildtrak name, the electric Ranger is a formidable off-roader. It features Ford’s Terrain Management System 2.0, with seven selectable drive modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Tow/Haul, Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. Each mode adjusts throttle response, traction control, regenerative braking, and suspension damping. For example, in Rock Crawl mode, the system locks the rear differential, reduces motor torque for precise control, and activates the 360-degree camera with underbody view.

The truck also includes a Trail Turn Assist feature, which brakes the inside rear wheel to tighten turning radius on narrow trails—a game-changer for navigating tight forest paths.

Suspension and Ground Clearance

The Wildtrak Electric rides on a reinforced chassis with a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear setup. The adaptive dampers automatically adjust firmness based on terrain. With 9.8 inches of ground clearance and a 32-degree approach angle, the truck can tackle steep inclines, river crossings, and rocky terrain with confidence. The underbody is protected by a 6mm-thick aluminum skid plate, shielding the battery and motors from impacts.

Real-World Example: During a test drive in Moab, Utah, the Ranger Wildtrak Electric climbed a 25-degree rock face using Rock Crawl mode, with no wheel slippage or suspension bottoming out—a testament to its engineering.

Utility Features

The 5-foot bed is equipped with Ford’s PowerBox system, featuring four 120V outlets (up to 2.4 kW total) to power tools, camping gear, or even a small fridge. The bed also includes:

  • Integrated tie-downs with LED lighting.
  • Under-bed storage compartment (waterproof).
  • Retractable bed extender for longer cargo.

For towing, the truck can handle up to 7,700 pounds with a 1,800-pound payload capacity. The trailer brake controller is integrated into the SYNC 5 system, allowing precise adjustment of trailer brakes.

Charging and Ownership Experience

Charging Options and Times

The Ranger Wildtrak Electric supports both AC and DC fast charging. On a 240V Level 2 charger, it gains 25 miles of range per hour, achieving an 80% charge in 10 hours. With a 150-kW DC fast charger, it replenishes from 10% to 80% in just 38 minutes. Ford includes a 11.5-kW onboard charger and a mobile charging cord (120V/240V compatible).

Ford’s Plug & Charge feature allows automatic billing at participating stations (e.g., Electrify America, ChargePoint), eliminating the need for apps or cards.

Charging Infrastructure and Home Setup

Ford partners with ChargePoint and Electrify America to provide 3 years of free charging (up to 2,500 kWh). For home charging, Ford offers the Ford Connected Charge Station ($799), a 48-amp Level 2 charger that can be installed in garages or driveways. It features Wi-Fi connectivity, scheduling, and energy monitoring via the FordPass app.

Pro Tip: Schedule charging to complete by 7:00 AM during off-peak hours (11:00 PM–6:00 AM) to reduce electricity costs by up to 40%.

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Maintenance and Warranty

Electric vehicles require less maintenance than gas-powered trucks. The Ranger Wildtrak Electric has no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Ford offers a comprehensive warranty package:

  • 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
  • 8-year/100,000-mile battery and motor warranty.
  • 12-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty.

Ford also provides 24/7 roadside assistance, including free towing to the nearest charging station if the battery is depleted.

Data Table: Charging and Range Comparison

Feature Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Chevrolet Silverado EV Rivian R1T
Battery Capacity 135 kWh 170 kWh 135 kWh
EPA Range 315 miles 450 miles 314 miles
0-60 mph 5.8 sec 4.5 sec 3.0 sec
DC Fast Charge (10–80%) 38 min 30 min 28 min
Towing Capacity 7,700 lbs 10,000 lbs 11,000 lbs

Conclusion: The Future of Pickup Trucks is Electric

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric isn’t just another electric vehicle—it’s a bold reimagining of what a pickup truck can be. By merging the rugged durability of the Ranger platform with the silent, efficient power of an EV, Ford has created a truck that excels in every domain: performance, utility, technology, and sustainability. Whether you’re hauling lumber to a job site, towing a camper to the mountains, or navigating city streets, the Wildtrak Electric delivers a seamless, exhilarating experience.

What sets it apart is its balanced approach. It doesn’t sacrifice off-road capability for efficiency, nor does it compromise on comfort for utility. The advanced tech features, like BlueCruise and Terrain Management 2.0, make it smarter than ever, while the robust charging network and low maintenance costs ensure long-term ownership satisfaction. At a starting price of $58,495 (before federal and state incentives), it’s competitively priced against rivals and offers exceptional value for money.

As the world moves toward a greener future, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric proves that sustainability and adventure can coexist. It’s not just a truck for today—it’s a truck for the next generation. For drivers ready to embrace the electric revolution without sacrificing capability, the Ranger Wildtrak Electric isn’t just a choice; it’s the right choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car stand out in the electric pickup segment?

The Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car combines rugged off-road capability with zero-emission performance, featuring a 4×4 powertrain, 300-mile range, and signature Wildtrak styling. Its unique blend of towing capacity (up to 7,500 lbs) and advanced tech like Pro Power Onboard sets it apart.

How does the performance of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric compare to gas-powered models?

The electric version delivers instant torque (400 lb-ft) for faster 0-60 mph acceleration (5.5 seconds) while maintaining the Ranger’s legendary durability. Unlike gas models, it offers near-silent operation and regenerative braking for improved efficiency.

What are the key features of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car?

Highlights include a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and a 2.3 kW power outlet in the bed. The Wildtrak trim adds unique 18-inch alloys, off-road suspension, and premium interior finishes.

How long does it take to charge the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric?

Using a 150kW DC fast charger, the 98kWh battery reaches 80% in 45 minutes. Level 2 (240V) charging takes 10-12 hours, ideal for overnight charging at home.

Is the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric suitable for off-roading?

Yes, it retains the Wildtrak’s off-road pedigree with 8.9 inches of ground clearance, Trail Turn Assist, and selectable drive modes (Mud, Sand, Rock). The low center of gravity from the battery improves stability on rough terrain.

What is the towing and payload capacity of the Ford Ranger Wildtrak Electric Car?

The electric Wildtrak can tow up to 7,500 lbs (matching gas models) and carry a 1,800-lb payload. Its battery cooling system ensures consistent performance under heavy loads.

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