The divine heir of the classic Land Rover Defender has finally hit the assembly lines. The company has resolved the supply chain issues and started production of the off-roader at its factory in Hambach. The deliveries to customers will initiate in December.
“We’ve come a long way since the project kicked off in 2017, and this is a landmark moment for Ineos Automotive as a vehicle manufacturer,” Ineos Automotive’s commercial director, Mark Tennant, stated. “To get to this point is a testament to the resilience and hard work of the entire Ineos Automotive team, our development partners, and our suppliers – for which we thank them all as we now look forward to making our first deliveries to customers.”
The off-road SUV will be sold around the globe via its network of more than 200 centres. The automaker has already signed contracts with dealers in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. Around 75,000 people have shown interest in purchasing the all-new Ineos Grenadier. While the sales partners aren’t finalized for the American market yet, the company is actively finding one.
The powertrain choices for the Grenadier will vary for different markets. However, Europe will receive two in-line six BMW engine choices – petrol and diesel – both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The permanent all-wheel drive boasts a two-speed transfer case and three differential locks.
The North American customers might only receive the B58 twin-turbo petrol mill generating 281 horsepower (210 kW) and 332 pound-feet (450 Newton-meters) of torque. However, the diesel creates 245 hp (183 kW) and 406 lb-ft (550 Nm) of twist.
Ineos Automotive is also progressing on its FCEV project. The company plans to start road testing of the Grenadier Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV) Concept before the end of this year. Stay tuned for more information on this hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.
Source and Images: Motor1