A new patent application suggests Ford may work on a third axle that can be added to body-on-frame pickups to make them 6x6s out of the factory. But there has yet to be any public word on when or even if it will be released. So, if you want a Ford truck with six-wheel drive, Ricardo now sells a Ford Ranger HEX 6×6 hybrid conversion kit for the most challenging jobs. Ricardo says the best thing about this conversion is that it is a bolt-on overlay system that doesn’t require any changes to the Ford Ranger’s structure or frame. So, it has a vast range of powers while keeping the Ranger’s strength and dependability. Also, it can be taken off and put on another vehicle without putting the original Ranger’s structural stability at risk. With Ricardo’s HEX 6×6 upgrade, the Ford Ranger gets an extra rear axle and a hybrid engine to help power the different wheels. The hybrid system comprises a Ford production electric motor that boosts the European Ranger’s 249 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine to 281 horsepower. Ricardo says the De Dion rear suspension helps traction, ride quality, and durability while saving weight. The Ranger HEX 6×6 has regenerative braking because it is a hybrid car. This helps to charge the battery. But the most significant gain might be how much you can carry. The Ford Ranger HEX 6×6 can carry up to 8,378 pounds more than the F-250 Super Duty. Because the Ranger HEX 6×6 has more hybrid power and torque, it can pull all that weight through rough territory. Ricardo also sells a cheaper 6×4 version with a “lazy” third axle for customers who need the heavy-duty work but don’t need the extra off-road capability. So, it only has four wheels, but it can still carry as much weight as a 6×6. Ricardo didn’t say how much this HEX 6×6 add-on would cost, but many users would likely find it helpful. The Ranger is the most popular pickup truck in Europe and is often used in rough conditions. Many people might find it beneficial to have a combined 6×6 that is more useful but doesn’t waste as much gas.
