Ford has unveiled the Puma Gen-E, a full electric version of the brand’s top-selling model which was the most-bought car in the UK in 2023.

The Puma Gen-E will slot into the Ford range alongside the existing EcoBoost Hybrid versions of the small crossover that has been on sale since 2019. Prime rivals are likely to be the Peugeot e-2008 and the recently launched MINI Aceman.

A new electric powertrain will offer up to 233 miles of range between charges and the ability to recharge from  10-80% in around 23 minutes on a 100 kW DC fast charger. The front-mounted single motor, fed by a 43kWh battery mounted under the floor, produces the equivalent of 166hp, producing a 0-62mph time of eight seconds.

To accommodate the battery the Puma electric is 28mm longer and 5mm higher than its combustion-engined sibling, but losing the ICE powertrain liberates extra space. The boot now accommodates 574 litres of luggage with the rear seats in place while a 43-litre ‘frunk’ is fitted under the bonnet.

In other respects, particularly the interior and equipment, the electric version of the Puma effectively replicates the ICE version.

Ford’s model e general manager Jon Williams believes the Gen-E will continue the Puma success story. “Puma Gen-E is our best ever Puma, with the most fun-to-drive experience yet, combined with an incredibly energy-efficient electric powertrain – and the new, even bigger GigaBox offers unmatched luggage capacity,” he said.

Ford dealers are taking orders for the Puma Gen-E at prices starting from £29,995, a £3645 increase on the petrol-engined Puma. First deliveries are expected in the Spring of 2025.