INEOS Fusilier EV includes range extender option

A third 4×4 model with two powertrain options – a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and low-emission range extension electric – has been unveiled by INEOS Automotive.

The INEOS Fusilier will be slightly smaller than the Grenadier with the range extender option under development including a small petrol engine that powers a generator to maintain the battery charge level when external charging isn’t available, says INEOS.

Confirmation of the alternative powertrain details and launch timings are expected shortly.

“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,” says INEOS chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

 “We’re excited to bring our electric 4×4 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.”

INEOS confirmed the zero-emission model in May 2022, Ratcliffe unveiling the Fusilier in London and confirming that alongside the previously announced BEV a low emission range-extender electric is in development.

“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,” he says.

“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.”

Automotive supplier Magna will also manufacture the vehicle in Graz, Austria.

Building on the Grenadier’s DNA with a modern direction and distinctive identity, the new 4X4 will be slightly shorter in length and slightly lower in height, says INEOS, adding It will be built on a bespoke skateboard platform with a steel top hat and underbody, and aluminium doors and closures.

INEOS Automotive also unveiled a Grenadier hydrogen fuel cell technology demonstrator at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2023, adding refuelling infrastructure needs to be in place before it is commercially viable. 

The Fusilier has softer lines, a curved, raked windscreen and underbody profiling, says INEOS Group design head Toby Ecuyer.