THE first of a new generation of electric vehicles has been revealed by Ford in the shape of the zero emission Explorer SUV.

Built in Germany as part of a collaboration with Volkswagen, the new Explorer is the first electric vehicle that will go into production at the Ford Cologne EV Campus.

Ford says the vehicle leads the way for a new wave of electric models from Ford's American roots and designed for Europe.

Joining the existing Mustang Mach-E in Ford's electric SUV portfolio, the new Explorer is a five-seater and aimed at adventure families.

With the option of a dual motor set up and all-wheel-drive it appears as a much more conventional SUV than the Mach-E and is likely to be priced below the Mustang with prices ranging between £40,000 and £50,000.

Order books will open towards the end of the year and the model is slated for release early in 2024.

A 450 litre boot expanding to a maximum of 1,400 litres underlines its family-friendly approach and the cockpit is high-tech including a movable touchscreen and connected infotainment system.

A 17-litre console between driver and front-seat passenger can hold a 15-inch laptop, combining with a private locker behind the touchscreen.

The Explorer's SYNC Move infotainment systemfeatures a movable 14.6âinch touchscreen that can slide up and down to suit the driver and conceals a private locker storage space for valuables.

A compartment for two large smartphones comes with wireless device chargeras standard, and SYNC Move provides wireless compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Driver assistance systems include - for the first time on a Ford in Europe - Assisted Lane Changefor smoothly and safely changing lanes at the push of an indicator stalk, and Clear Exit Assistthat provides warnings of approaching cyclists before opening doors in busy urban centres.

It is understood the Explorer range will start with a rear-wheel-drive model with a range of around 220 miles while more powerful and all-wheel-drive versions have full charge ranges in excess of 300 miles.

Recharging to 80 per cent capacity should take around 25 minutes, says Ford.