In 2017, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Founder and Chairman of British Chemical Company INEOS, joined his friends for a beer at The Grenadier Pub in London. You’ll want to remember that name, by the way. This may not seem like the ideal setting for automotive innovation, but this bar-side conversation eventually took a nostalgic turn.
Ratcliffe, a 4x4 enthusiast himself, was frustrated with the idea that modern 4x4 vehicles prioritize luxury and tech-heavy features. Yet, many motorists still yearn for the off-roaders of old – built for purpose and capability with a rugged and classic look.
As the discussion continued, Ratcliffe realized this gap in the market presented an opportunity. This casual gathering of friends ultimately sparked the vision for a no-nonsense, adventure-ready off-road vehicle.
The result of this vision is the INEOS Grenadier, a 4x4 that captures the look and feel of history’s classic off-road vehicles with elite durability and performance at its core. Built from the ground up and tested in the world’s most demanding environments, the Grenadier redefines the modern 4x4 experience.
How did this vehicle come to be? From its early development to years of testing around the globe, we'll share the story of the INEOS Grenadier and explain what makes it such a unique off-road vehicle.
FROM IDEA TO REALITY
Work began quickly at INEOS, with hundreds of leading engineers focused on bringing the Grenadier to life. Their goal? Build an off-road vehicle that represents adventure and active driving with the capability to be a utilitarian work machine.
The transition from concept to development marked a major milestone for the INEOS team. To do so, they sought out industry-leading partners from around the globe. In 2019, they announced BMW as the supplier of the Grenadier’s world-class turbocharged six-cylinder engine. Later that year, 4x4 specialists Magna Steyr joined the project to help engineer and develop the vehicle. Similar partnerships were announced along the way, reinforcing the expertise and craftsmanship behind the build of the Grenadier.
In July 2020, INEOS was ready to reveal its progress, starting with the vehicle’s exterior. Inspired by the look of classic off-roaders, the Grenadier features a boxy, uncomplicated design that prioritizes functionality and performance.
A year later, the Grenadier’s interior was revealed. Following a similar philosophy, the interior strikes an ideal balance between functionality and comfort by avoiding excess complexity and embracing modern technology where necessary.
Throughout its development, the Grenadier underwent years of rigorous testing and calibration. Driven over 1.1 million miles across 15 countries, it was pushed to the limit in extreme on-road and off-road conditions, with adjustments and tweaks made along the way. The Grenadier has been battle-tested in nearly every environment imaginable, so it can handle whatever road, or lack thereof, you throw at it.
INEOS valued real-world testing and customer feedback when creating the Grenadier. Remember how we asked you to remember the name of the London Pub? The Grenadier is named after the very place where the idea originated, a decision influenced by public input. From potential customers and off-road enthusiasts to global industry experts, this vehicle is the result of a true collective effort.
A NEW VEHICLE READY FOR ADVENTURE
INEOS is not your typical automaker. While it has industrial experience, the company is most known for its work in the chemical and energy sectors. However, this lack of direct experience wasn’t a disadvantage. Rather, it brought a fresh perspective and sole focus to developing a functional, high-performance off-road vehicle.
Every design choice, from top to bottom to inside and out, was made with a clear purpose in mind and free from the influence of industry norms and trends. By prioritizing what drivers truly value in a 4x4, INEOS has entered the automotive scene with a high-quality, innovative vehicle.
The Grenadier is more than just another 4x4. It’s built for those who demand performance and reliability in every drive. With customization options and a plethora of add-on accessories, it can adapt to the wants and needs of any lifestyle. When you get behind the wheel of a Grenadier, you’re not just getting from Point A to Point B. You’re making a statement.
NEXT UP: CHARLESTON
As INEOS expands its presence across the country, we can think of no location better suited for its arrival than Charleston, S.C. The city’s blend of historical southern charm, outdoor living, and access to off-road destinations makes it a perfect fit for this adventure-ready vehicle.
In future content, we’ll take a closer look at the models, trim levels, features, and specifications that make the Grenadier such a remarkable vehicle. For now, one thing is certain – the INEOS Grenadier is set to make waves.
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