Ford is going to make a hybrid Mustang by 2020

Ford has just unveiled a plan to electrify its model lineup. The new roadmap details seven new EVs and hybrid vehicles to come from the American manufacturer. Alongside a fully electric SUV with a range of 300 miles, Ford says it will also be making a Transit Custom plug-in and “a high-volume” car design for ride sharing, as well as a two new “pursuit-rated” hybrid vehicles for the police force.

But the most interesting additions? Ford has also pledged to make a hybrid version of Ford’s famous F-150 pickup truck and a hybrid version of the iconic Ford Mustang by 2020.

“Ford’s global EV strategy is to build on our strengths,” said Raj Nair, executive vice president of product development and chief technical officer. “While some others seem to be focused on marketing claims and numbers, we’re focused on providing customers even more of what they love about their Ford vehicles. This means more capability for trucks, more productivity for commercial vehicles and more performance for sports cars – plus improved fuel economy.

Ford already makes a more efficient version of the Mustang with a turbo-powered 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine, and Ford could increase its power by boosting it with hybrid elements. Conversely, Ford could downsize the internal combustion element of the power unit, and use hybrid components to maintain a similar amount of power – while increasing fuel efficiency. It’s not yet clear which of those roads it’ll go down, though.

When the hybrid Mustang does hit the road, it will be interesting to see how it’s received. The normal Mustang is characterised by its 5.0-litre, naturally aspirated engine, and with the EcoBoost, and now a forthcoming hybrid version, Ford is straying further away from that classic formula. In the same way, a hybrid version of a pickup truck – the ultimate petrol-guzzling vehicle – will represent a huge moment for Ford.

Read a full review of the Ford Mustang 2.3-litre EcoBoost on our sister site AutoExpress.