Ford's first all-electric SUV, the Mach-E, unveiled

Ford says the Mach E will start at about $43,000.

There will be three versions to start with: Select, Premium and First Edition. In 2021, Ford plans a "California Route 1" model and in the spring of 2021 a high-performance GT model.

Ford is aiming for 230 miles (370 km) of driving range per charge for standard models, and 300 miles for "extended range" models.

The rival Tesla Model Y sport utility has a 300-mile range for rear-drive models, and 280 miles of range for all-wheel drive and performance models.

In pic: The charging socket is seen on Ford Motor Co's all-new electric Mustang Mach-E vehicle during a photo shoot at a studio in Warren, Michigan, US.

Tesla Inc Chief Executive Elon Musk pioneered high-performance electric vehicles.

Ford plans to join Porsche and other automakers in catching up.

Ford is aiming to make the standard Mach E's time from 0 to 60 miles per hour faster than the least expensive Porsche Macan sport utility.

The Mach E GT's acceleration target is in the "mid-3-second" range - on a par with a high-performance Porsche 911, Ford said.

Ford will offer a 15.5 inch screen in the Mach E. The Tesla Model 3 offers a 15-inch (38 cm)screen. Ford has developed a new generation of its Sync infotainment software that can be updated over the air, like a Tesla.

In pic: the front truck of the new Ford Mustang Mach-E SUV in Warren, Michigan.

Ford will start taking reservations for Mach Es on November 17, asking customers to put down a $500 deposit.

Vehicles are scheduled to start shipping to customers in late 2020.

Mustang coupes deliver a distinctive engine growl that is as much a part of the brand as the pony logo.

The Mach E will have no pistons or exhaust pipes. Ford said it will make noises in three modes: Whisper, Engage and Unbridled.

The Mach E will have 59.6 cubic feet of load space with the rear seats folded down.

The vehicle will also have a front trunk, or "frunk," that can carry 4.8 cubic feet of stuff - and has a drain in the bottom that makes it usable as a drink cooler.