FORD has unveiled its next generation of Tourneo Custom multi-activity vehicles which includes an all-electric variant with a range of up to 230 miles.

The line-up will be available next year and sees space for up to nine passengers aimed at both the leisure and professional sectors.

A plug-in hybrid option is also part of the new Tourneo Custom range, as are diesel automatics with all-wheel-drive.

The E-Tourneo Custom - which sees seating capacity reduced to eight - uses the same battery cell technology as the Ford F-150 pick-up and can be recharged to 80 per cent in around 40 minutes.

A full charge takes around eight hours while from a fast charger some 23 miles of range can be added in five minutes.

The E-Tourneo Custom has a two tonne maximum towing capacity and with a variable seating arrangement can be set up for anything from carrying sports equipment to carrying business passengers.

Ford's Pro Power Onboard technology also allows users to power digital devices, tools or sports and camping equipment from sockets in the front cabin.

The nine-seat PHEV and diesel models as well as the electric version have a new track-mounted seating system in the second and third rows, for maximum adaptability when arranging the cabin to provide optimum space for people and their belongings.

The tracked seating system enables the seats to be slid forward or back along notched tracks set into the rear cabin floor, or to lifted out completely as required. The three second row seats can each be moved independently, while the third row seats have a two seat/one seat split.

Powered sliding side doors are a standard feature.

The PHEV Tourneo Custom has a 2.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor which is capable of 31 miles of zero emission driving.

Alongside the electrified powertrains, Ford will also offer the Tourneo Custom with its latest-generation EcoBlue diesel engines in 136ps, 150ps or 170ps power outputs - combined with a choice of a new high-efficiency eight-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox.

The new Tourneo Custom also introduces an all-wheel drive option aimed at those who need all-weather capability and for owners accessing campsites, beaches and trails.

The system is available for vehicles fitted with the 136ps and 170ps EcoBlue diesel engine and automatic gearbox.

The diesel versions have a 2.5-tonne towing limit and a new retractable towbar option which allows the tow hook to be stored from view.

Prices for the new Tourneo Custom - which is to be built in Turkey - are still to be announced.