Ford is planning to launch a fully-electric SUV with a range of 300 miles by the year 2020 as part of a push to appeal towards eco-conscious Millennials.

The brand claims that the new model will appeal to a growing market for economical SUVs that appeal to the generation of motorists are motivated by a strong social conscience, keen to rent, and willing to share goods and services.

A statement issued by Ford said: “More than 4 in 5 Millennials believe SUVs have become more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly during the last 5 years. Having shed their gas-guzzling reputation, SUVs are now on the shopping lists of one-in-four Millennials in the market for a new car.”

Industry SUV registrations were up 21% in 2016, accounting for on-in-four new vehicles registered.

Ford introduced three new SUVs in Europe last year, and the new zero-emission model will be one of five arriving by 2020.

Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales and Service, Ford of Europe, said: “SUV sales are rising faster than any other type of vehicle in Europe, and eco-conscious Millennials are a driving force behind growing SUV demand. Last year, Ford’s SUV sales outpaced even this rapid industry growth.

“Customers are discovering the fuel-efficiency offered by advanced engines like our new 120PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel that meets the latest Euro Stage 6 emissions requirements and delivers 115g/km CO2 in the new Kuga, and the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine in the Ford EcoSport.” 

Sales of Ford’s SUV models in the UK – the compact EcoSport, medium-size Kuga and full-size Edge – are up 320% in three years and grew 31% in 2016 compared to 2015 in Europe.