Is this the ultimate Ford Ranger pickup? Petrolheads will argue the Raptor with its 292hp V6, muscular bodywork, big tyres and beefed-up chassis is the one that most deserves this accolade.

But anyone looking for a practical load-carrier with a bigger load volume, greater payload, increased traction and a lot more oomph to boot would say the Ranger HEX is a strong candidate.

See also: First impressions: Ford’s new-look Ranger Wildtrak

It’s been produced by Ricardo, the automotive engineering consultancy and specialist driveline and vehicles producer, by adding a bolt-on third-axle assembly that can be removed and installed on another Ranger.

There’s a 6×4 version with a trailing axle and a far more interesting 6×6 variant with an electrically driven third axle.

Depending on the chosen specification, this one can deliver a kick-in-the-back boost of up to 280hp (210kW) in addition to the 240hp generated by Ford’s current 3-litre V6 diesel.

It’s a fully independent, self-contained power pack, with energy harvested under braking topping up the battery ready for the next deployment when heavily laden acceleration from a road junction, roundabout or steep uphill track is needed.

Thanks to the extra axle and its de Dion suspension, the Ranger’s payload capacity is increased from the 1,030kg or so of the regular pickup to 3,800kg with a dropside flatbed body.