INEOS Automotive has whipped the wraps off the Fusilier, the third model in the British marque’s portfolio comprising off-road-ready, go-anywhere 4x4s. And although it might look old-school cool, it’s propelled in a manner that’s much less traditional.
Indeed, whereas the Grenadier SUV and Grenadier Quartermaster double-cab bakkie are powered by inline-six turbo-petrol and -diesel engines, the Fusilier has ditched internal combustion for something different. You guessed it, it comes in the shape — or, rather, surge — of electricity.
Developed in conjunction with automotive supplier Magna, which will also manufacture the Fusilier at its production facility in Graz, Austria, the newcomer “will represent a unique proposition for customers,” INEOS says.
However, for this emissions-free SUV, INEOS hasn’t veered off the off-road DNA so synonymous with its vehicles. However, for the Fusilier, the firm has taken a modern direction, not only in terms of its powertrain and bespoke “skateboard” platform, but also with the Fusilier’s distinct design.
“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,” said Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman of INEOS.
“BEVs [battery electric vehicles] 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.”
Additional powertrain? Yes, there’s the standard version and, then, a range-extender option.
Ratcliffe added, “The Fusilier is a great looking vehicle, and the two powertrain options provide a real-world reduction in carbon emissions without compromise to the off-road capability or the on-road performance.
“We’re excited to bring our electric 4X4 to market but we are beginning to understand the clear limitations of battery electric in certain situations. We believe the addition of a range extender electric to our line-up will offer our customers a very low emission drive without the range anxiety drivers of electric vehicles experience today.”
Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive, said, “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.”