New Ford Mustang Mach-E revealed

The Ford Mustang is known for its big V8 engine and head-turning coupe styling. But the latest member of the Mustang family is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

The horse has bolted on Ford’s upcoming Tesla fighter, the first all-electric car from one of America’s car making giants.

And it was Ford itself that inadvertently leaked information and images of a new car described as a “Mustang-inspired fully electric SUV”.

The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an all electric SUV.

To be called the Mustang Mach-E, the car was supposed to be unveiled to the public for the first time late this morning Australian time at a live stream event hosted by actor Idris Elba in Los Angeles.

But the configurator for the all-new electric SUV was accidentally published on Ford’s own website in the United States, revealing key details and the look of the crucial new model.

It also revealed the slogan to accompany the new car – “the future of exhilaration” – giving an indication of why the Mustang name is controversially being used.

The website was taken down once the mishap was discovered, to await the grand public reveal.

The Mach-E will compete with the Tesla Model X.

While the Mach-E has nothing like the muscle car two-door looks of the Mustang, its lights and some curves shares design cues with the car that is known for its V8 performance. It also boasts the familiar pony badges on its closed grille.

However, rather than a growling V8, the Mustang Mach-E will be powered exclusively by electric motors.

The Mach-E has a large tablet style display.

The since-removed website also suggested there would be multiple models priced from US$43,895 ($64,400), including one with a rated driving range of 300 miles (483km).

Images posted to other website suggest one version could be called the Mustang Mach-E4X, the 4 referencing its all-wheel drive system. Another variant is expected to be called Mach-E California Route 1.

Ford Mustang Mach-E has an impressive range of more than 450km..

The move by Ford to use the Mustang name is a bold one, considering the heritage of what is the brand’s most famous model.

Clearly Ford wants to push the performance attributes of its first all-electric car.

While it may resonate with enthusiasts, it also has the potential to dilute the Mustang name.

Ford Australia has not announced whether it will take the Mach-E, other than to say it is considering it.

Considering the imminent influx of electric vehicles and the popularity of the Mustang in Australia it makes sense to allow Australians access to what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Fords ever created.