Spy shots of the 2023 Ford MEB-based electric crossover.

The first prototype of the electric compact crossover that Ford will launch in early 2023 has been spotted.

This is a model Ford is developing based on the MEB modular platform designed for Volkswagen Group's mainstream electric vehicles, made possible by an agreement between the company and Volkswagen in 2019. The MEB platform is the basis for several vehicles, including Volkswagen's ID.4 compact crossover, with which Ford will likely work closely.

The prototype is completely camouflaged, but details of its basic shape and proportions can be gathered. The design is similar to the spy shots of the clay model and appears much boxier than ID.4.

Several teaser shots released last month also hint at future developments.

Like the ID.4, Ford will offer a choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The size of the battery is not known, but the ID.4's largest is an 82 kwh unit with a range of up to 275 miles.

It is unlikely that this crossover will be sold in the US. Ford has only announced plans to sell it in Europe, where it will be produced. Production will take place at Ford's plant in Cologne, Germany. This plant also houses Ford's European headquarters.

Ford will eventually launch a second crossover in Europe based on the MEB platform. It is described as a sport crossover and will likely end up as a more coupe-like version of the first crossover, much like VW offers the ID.4 and ID.5 siblings.

The electric crossover is part of Ford's plan to launch nine EVs in Europe by the end of 2024 and become a fully electric car brand on the Old Continent by 2030.