Ford has revealed its first, battery-powered production car - the Focus Electric - to go on sale later this year in some markets.
Ford hasn't quoted a range, but claims the Focus will have sufficient reserves to meet 'the majority of daily driving habits of Americans'. Recharging is supposed to take three to four hours and the car comes with a Microsoft application to help owners choose the lowest electricity tariff.
The lithium-ion batteries provide enough power to propel the Focus to a claimed top speed of 135km/h. Ford also says that the electric variant provides the same dynamics as the internal combustion versions.
American market cars will come with 17-inch alloy wheels, voice-activated navigation and Sirius Satellite radio. Equipment levels, prices and an on-sale date for Irish market cars will be announced in due course.