Ford will launch a petrol hybrid version of the Mondeo estate, as part of an ‘enhanced range’ due next year.

The 30% of Mondeo customers who choose an estate will be able to opt for a hybrid.

The Mondeo hybrid, which uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine, continuously variable transmission and 1.4kWh battery under the rear bench, has so far only been available as a saloon – arguably limiting its uptake, as this is the slowest-selling bodystyle for the car in the UK.

Launching it as an estate enables Ford to offer an alternative to diesel for the 30% of British customers – private and business – who opt for this bodystyle. It follows an increased fleet sales forecast for the hybrid this year, because of rising sales inquiries in 2017, according to head of fleet, Owen Gregory. Pricing was also aligned with the equivalent diesel at the start of the year.

Roelant de Waard, European marketing, sales and service vice president, said: “Electrified powertrains will continue to play a key role in our European product line-up. Ford is investing $11bn and plans to deliver 16 fully electric vehicles within a global portfolio of 40 electrified vehicles by 2022.”