America’s love of big trucks isn’t going away, but vehicles at the opposite end of the size scale are intruding. Stellantis thinks people will actually buy the Fiat Topolino, and kei trucks are gaining traction with those who need a more fuel-efficient work vehicle (at least in the states where they’re legal). But the StepRanger takes sizing to a whole new level.
It is described by its manufacturer as a “micro-truck”. stepranger Looks like a children’s wagon with handlebars. These are the extremes of vehicle minimalism: only four wheels and a flat platform (the side railings fold down) and a small step at the back for the operator. When that stage is folded, its length remains only 65 inches. As shown in the StepRanger promotional photos, it’s small enough to fold down the tailgate and fit in the bed of the Rivian R1T. Most full-size pickups are available with long beds that will swallow it with ease.
That specification is important, because a stepranger may be to a truck what a tender is to a large ship. With the truck parked, the 31-inch-wide StepRanger can be driven into nooks and crannies where a normal vehicle can’t get into, such as between (or even inside) buildings or down narrow trails. It’s not just for people who are too lazy to move. It has a claimed payload capacity of 1,000 pounds, and because it does not have a driver’s seat, almost all of the footprint can be used for cargo space. The cargo platform is 59 inches long and takes up the entire width of the StepRanger.
An electric motor provides the StepRanger’s big muscles and also gives the fetch truck a top speed of 15 mph. The company claims the 48-volt battery provides a range of 15-17 miles, which should be enough for “all day” operation. A second battery can also be installed as an option. According to the company, once the StepRanger meets the rating, the only preparation left to do is charging.
The StepRanger sells for $2,700 plus $250 for shipping anywhere in the lower 48. The dual-battery setup is an additional $250, and you can upgrade from the stock all-terrain tires to snow/mud tires for $160. Alternatively, you can purchase a set of those tires mounted on the wheels separately for $260, or fit the StepRanger with a pair of small snow chains for $64.95.
This sounds like it would be incredibly useful. Not only can it fit into places traditional vehicles can’t, but it’s ideal for moving things short distances without the hassle of loading and unloading a truck or trailer. It’s kind of reminiscent of the early days of ATVs, when innovation and quirky ideas were more common.
