British chemical giant INEOS has provided a glimpse into its future automotive ambitions, unveiling a new pickup-truck variant and a hydrogen-powered prototype set for reveal at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Expanding Automotive Ambitions
After successfully launching its first vehicle, the Grenadier 4×4, in France last fall, INEOS has been preparing the rugged vehicle, often compared to the Land Rover Defender, for the U.S. market by the end of 2023. However, the company’s vision for the future of transport extends beyond a single vehicle type.
Today, INEOS unveiled a teaser for a new truck variant named the Grenadier Quartermaster. The vehicle is expected to be identical to the Grenadier SUV from the cab forward, debuting as a double cab. Although there’s no news regarding a regular-cab version, the teaser displays a robust-looking tailgate with the Grenadier logo boldly stamped on it. The Quartermaster, with its tough round taillights borrowed from the SUV design, will make its full debut on July 13 before participating in the Goodwood Hill Climb.
Hydrogen Future in Sight
Simultaneously, INEOS will present a Grenadier-based Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Demonstrator. Although INEOS has previously expressed interest in hydrogen power, this reveal marks the first fuel-cell prototype from the budding automaker. While specifics about the fuel-cell demonstrator are sparse at this stage, more details are expected to surface before the prototype takes part in the Goodwood Hill Climb event.
INEOS Grenadier: Set for U.S. Launch
The Grenadier, which will hit U.S. shores by the end of this year, has a starting price of $73,100. The off-road-ready SUV is powered by a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, which outputs 282 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. Despite a predicted EPA combined fuel economy rating of just 15 mpg, the vehicle is set to feature front and rear electronic locking differentials and BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires.
Potential Impact
The advent of the Quartermaster and the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology Demonstrator underscores INEOS’s commitment to diversifying its automotive portfolio and investing in renewable energy technologies. If successful, these moves could significantly impact the auto industry, heralding a new player in the realm of hydrogen fuel-cell technology.
