Ford R5.2 Billion Plant – In a groundbreaking move set to reshape South Africa’s role in the global auto market, Ford Motor Company has officially begun production of its Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) version of the popular Ranger at its newly upgraded plant in Silverton, Pretoria. The R5.2 billion investment, one of the largest in the nation’s automotive history, is not only boosting job creation and domestic manufacturing but also marking Ford’s strategic pivot toward a more sustainable future. August 2025 is a milestone month as the first batch of 200 PHEV Rangers roll off the assembly line daily, thanks to the completion of the massive plant upgrade funded in part by Ford’s global sustainability push and local government support. The Silverton plant now serves as one of the primary global hubs for hybrid Ranger production, with expectations to increase output by the end of Q4 2025. South Africa has long been a critical node in Ford’s global supply chain, and this electrified production marks a turning point in the country’s ambitions to lead Africa’s EV transition. The Ranger PHEV combines power, utility, and fuel savings, appealing to both domestic consumers and international export markets. With EV tax incentives, green rebates, and policy support from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic), this initiative is expected to have a domino effect on local suppliers and related sectors. As global automakers rush to meet emissions targets and sustainable production standards, Ford’s PHEV rollout is not just a business expansion—it’s a commitment to environmental responsibility, energy diversification, and regional growth. Here’s everything you need to know about the R5.2 billion investment, the technology powering the new Ranger PHEV, and what it means for consumers, workers, and the local economy.
Ford R5.2 Billion Plant Upgrade: What’s New in August 2025?
The revamped Silverton plant is now equipped with advanced robotics, clean energy systems, and expanded manufacturing lines specifically tailored for hybrid vehicles.
- Total Investment: R5.2 billion
- Production Capacity: 200 PHEV Rangers per day
- Completion Date: July 2025
- New Jobs Created: 1,200+ direct
- Export Markets: Europe, Asia, Australia
- Local Content Sourcing: Over 50% from SA-based suppliers
- Emission Target: 30% lower per unit than petrol variants
Why the Silverton Plant Was Chosen for PHEV Expansion
Silverton has been Ford’s cornerstone in Southern Africa for years, but the 2025 expansion marks a new era of clean-tech automotive manufacturing.
- Central logistics location for export
- Pre-existing skilled workforce
- Access to renewable energy sources nearby
- Close proximity to SA supplier base
- National Government green incentives
- Competitive operational costs
- Strong trade ties with EV-friendly countries
What Makes the New Ranger PHEV a Game-Changer?
Ford’s Ranger PHEV isn’t just about electrification—it’s about maintaining power, durability, and off-road capabilities while offering major fuel savings.
- Battery Range: 45–50 km (pure electric)
- Full Hybrid Range: 800+ km
- Powertrain: 2.3L turbocharged petrol + electric motor
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,000 kg
- Charging Time: 80% in 30 mins (DC fast charge)
- Driving Modes: EV only, Hybrid, Power mode
- CO₂ Emissions: Cut by 35% compared to petrol-only Ranger
Ranger Petrol vs Ranger PHEV
| Feature | Petrol Ranger | Ranger PHEV |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.3L Petrol | 2.3L Petrol + Electric |
| Fuel Efficiency (km/l) | 9–11 | 18–22 |
| Emissions (CO₂/km) | 205g | 130g |
| Battery Range | N/A | 50 km |
| Hybrid Range | N/A | 800+ km |
| Towing Capacity | 3,000 kg | 3,000 kg |
| Daily Units Produced | 0 | 200+ |
Departmental Support & Green Auto Policy Boost
The South African government has backed Ford’s project with policy incentives and streamlined industrial zoning, aligning with its green industrialization plans.
- EV Rebate: Up to R80,000 per eligible unit (2025)
- Customs Duty Relief: On imported EV parts
- Training Grants: For new technicians and engineers
- Export Credit Incentives: To boost international competitiveness
- Carbon Tax Benefits: For lower-emission production facilities
- dtic Special Economic Zone: Enhanced support for Silverton
- Local Procurement Mandate: 40–50% SA-sourced components
Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) – Contact Details
If you’re a supplier, investor, or policy analyst looking for engagement:
- Website: www.thedtic.gov.za
- Phone: +27 12 394 9500
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 77 Meintjies Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria, 0002
What Consumers Should Know Before Buying the PHEV Ranger
With local production and government support, prices are expected to remain competitive despite global inflation and tech costs.
- Expected Price Range: R680,000 – R780,000
- Availability: Dealerships from September 2025
- Warranty: 8 years on battery, 5 years on vehicle
- Financing: Green vehicle loans with 5% interest subsidy
- Insurance Perks: Lower premiums due to eco rating
- Servicing: At 500+ Ford SA certified workshops
- Resale Value: Higher due to global EV demand
Key Benefits of Buying Locally Produced PHEV Ranger
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Advantage | Lower than imports due to local assembly |
| Service & Repairs | Available nationwide at Ford-certified workshops |
| Battery Warranty | 8 years or 160,000 km |
| Fuel Savings | Up to 50% monthly savings |
| EV Rebates | Up to R80,000 back from government |
| Tax Incentives | Lower carbon tax exposure |
| Eco Benefits | 35% lower emissions |
Local Economic Impact: Jobs, Skills & Supplier Boost
The R5.2 billion investment isn’t just about cars—it’s about uplifting communities, building skills, and growing industries tied to EV innovation.
- 1,200+ direct jobs at plant
- 3,000+ indirect jobs in logistics & supply chain
- 18 new Tier-1 suppliers contracted
- Partnerships with Tshwane University of Technology for EV skill-building
- Women-led supplier program for component manufacturing
- Annual supplier spend forecast: R2 billion+
- Long-term upskilling plan to include software & battery tech
Supplier Opportunities: How Local Businesses Can Participate
Ford is actively seeking partnerships with local businesses in the following sectors:
- Battery module assembly
- Lightweight metal casting
- Plastic molding for EV components
- Wiring harness production
- Packaging and logistics
- Software diagnostics & firmware suppliers
- Aftermarket accessories for hybrids
Looking Ahead: What’s Next After August 2025?
With the Silverton plant now operational for hybrid vehicles, Ford has hinted at further expansion to full EVs, including smaller SUVs and possibly local battery cell assembly lines.
- Projected Full EV Model by 2027
- Potential battery plant feasibility under study
- 20% annual increase in PHEV production planned by 2026
- Export agreements underway with 6 new countries
- Ongoing talks with Eskom for charging infrastructure partnerships
- On-site solar farm to power 35% of plant by 2026
- South Africa to become PHEV export hub for Sub-Saharan Africa
Ford South Africa’s PHEV & EV Vision 2025–2030
| Year | Key Target | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Launch PHEV Ranger Production | Achieved |
| 2026 | Expand output to 300 units/day | In Progress |
| 2026 | Solar power integration to 35% plant load | Under Implementation |
| 2027 | Launch compact EV SUV | In Development |
| 2028 | Begin localized battery module assembly | Feasibility Study |
| 2029 | Launch EV export program to Latin America | Under Negotiation |
| 2030 | Ford SA to be 50% hybrid/EV manufacturer | Long-Term Target |
South Africa’s automotive industry is experiencing a quiet revolution, and Ford’s massive R5.2 billion gamble is already yielding dividends. The PHEV Ranger not only puts the country on the hybrid map but also signals a much broader shift toward electrification. With government support, community benefits, and tech leadership, the future of driving in SA just got cleaner, faster, and smarter.
FAQs of Ford R5.2 Billion Plant
Q1: When will the Ford Ranger PHEV be available to the public?
A: Public dealership rollout begins in September 2025.
Q2: What is the electric-only range of the PHEV Ranger?
A: Approximately 45–50 km on pure electric drive.
Q3: Are there any government rebates available?
A: Yes, up to R80,000 per vehicle as part of the EV incentive policy.
Q4: Can the vehicle be serviced at any Ford center?
A: Yes, over 500 certified workshops across South Africa can handle PHEV servicing.
Q5: Will Ford launch other electric models in South Africa?
A: Yes, a compact electric SUV is scheduled for 2027, with battery assembly projects also under consideration.