Early examples of Ford’s Plug-in Hybrid Ranger will soon be hitting UK roads, offering spicy performance and the option of driving 26 miles on electricity alone.

A heady 275hp and 690Nm is generated by the combined efforts of a 2.3-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine and 75kW electric motor in the bell-housing.

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This is then channelled through a 10-speed automatic transmission and two-range transfer case with switchable four-wheel drive.

Economy is similar to that of the firm’s higher-performance diesel models, although cheaper fuel and a lower benefit-in-kind tax rate should make it more affordable for some owners to run.

It’s also capable of towing a 3.5t braked trailer and carrying up to 1t of payload.

Another benefit of the 11.8kWh hybrid battery is that it can provide 6.9kW of power for running tools that would normally require a generator.

As standard, a 10A supply is sent to a pair of sockets in the rear, but this can be upgraded to 16A for those that need to work with higher-powered equipment.

Prices start at £40,830 for the entry level XLT, plusher Wildtrak models are available from £46,230, and the pictured top-spec Stormtrak costs from £51,130.