New INEOS Fusilier is a smaller, electric alternative to the Grenadier

INEOS Automotive has revealed its new off-roader, the Fusilier, that will offer an alternative to the Grenadier and Quartermaster and comes with a choice of powertrains

Unveiled in London by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, fresh from doing the rounds with media in his role as the new minority owner of Manchester United, the Fusilier is available as a previously announced all-electric vehicle or range extender option. The range extender option contains a small petrol engine to power a generator that keeps the battery charged when external charging isn’t available.

Sir Jim, Chairman of INEOS, said; “As we developed this vehicle, we quickly concluded that in order to move towards decarbonisation but continue making cars that consumers want to drive, we need a mix of powertrain technologies. BEVs are perfect for certain uses: shorter trips and urban deliveries, but industry and governments need to have realistic expectations around other technologies that can help accelerate the necessary pace of change. That is the reason we are offering an additional powertrain for the Fusilier, one that dramatically reduces emissions but has the range and refuelling capabilities needed.”

The smaller in length and lower INEOS Fusilier is due to be developed in conjunction with and manufactured by automotive supplier Magna at its facility in Graz, Austria from early 2027. The facility also builds the Fisker Ocean, Jaguar I-Pace and Mercedes Benz G Class, a 4x4 that the Fusilier has similarities to in its styling. It will be built on a bespoke skateboard platform with a steel top hat and underbody, and aluminium doors and closures.

Testing of the Fusilier will take place near the facility on the Schöckl Mountain to prove its capability as an off-roader.

While we wait for details of range and other technical aspects regarding the Fusilier (due sometime this Autumn), the launch demonstrates INEOS’ commitment to zero emissions production in the future. The brand also unveiled a Grenadier Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Demonstrator at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2023 but will need to wait for the right infrastructure to be in place before putting that idea into production.

Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive, comments; “Announcing our third model line is another significant milestone for INEOS Automotive, cementing our intent as an automotive manufacturer – like our full vehicle line-up, we are here for the long-haul.”

words: Mike Booth
pictures: INEOS Automotive