Ford Motor Co. announced Monday plans to introduce its first all-electric vehicle in 2010, a van based on its Transit Connect commercial vehicle platform engineered in Europe.

The new Transit Connect light commercial vehicle with battery electric power represents the next logical step in our pursuit of even greater fuel economy and sustainability, said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president for global product development in a company statement.

The van is intended for business owners, not families. It will be offered in select US Ford dealerships.

To make this van, Ford is collaborating with Smith Electric Vehicles, which modifies existing commercial vehicles to use electric power.

The price of the all-electric Transit Connect has not been announced. Preceding the small electric passenger sedan in 2011 it will be Ford's first all-electric move into the North American market.

Electric cars Ford Motor Company