Key Takeaways
- The Ineos Fusilier electric SUV has been delayed indefinitely due to waning EV demand and policy uncertainty.
- Fusilier would have had a 249-mile range and an available range-extender option.
- Ineos is one of many automakers to rethink EV plans in recent months.
Remember the electric Ineos Fusilier off-roader that was previewed earlier this year? The automaker has confirmed that the electric SUV has been delayed indefinitely. The company blames plummeting demand for EVs for its sudden change of plans, reports Bloomberg.
“We are delaying the launch of the Ineos Fusilier for two reasons: reluctant consumer uptake of EVs, and industry uncertainty around tariffs, timings, and taxation. There needs to be long-term clarity from policymakers.”
– Ineos Automotive statement
Magna Steyr, with whom Ineos had planned to co-develop the Fusilier, also confirmed the decision to delay the electrified off-roader.
2024 Ineos Grenadier
- Engine
- 3.0-liter Turbo Inline 6
- Horsepower
- 282 hp
- Torque
- 332 lb-ft @ 1,750 rpm
- Transmission
- 8-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Four-Wheel Drive
Fusilier Would Have Had A 249-Mile Range
More compact than the BMW-powered Grenadier, the Fusilier was to be offered with fully electric and range-extender drivetrains. The former would have had a claimed range of around 249 miles, some way behind rivals from Rivian, Mercedes, and General Motors. To appease those who aren’t ready for the all-electric lifestyle, the range-extender was due to receive a small engine that would recharge the battery.
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Unlike a traditional plug-in hybrid, the Fusilier range extender wouldn’t power the wheels but rather send energy to the battery. This would allow the vehicle to function like an electric vehicle, with the engine acting as a generator. Earlier this year, Ineos Automotive CEO Lynn Calder described the Fusilier as “a very important transition vehicle” and noted it would produce 20-30% less emissions than a combustion-engined Ineos.
The Latest Automaker To Revise EV Ambitions
Ineos isn’t the first (and won’t be the last) automaker to backtrack on its electric plans. Mercedes-Benz recently confirmed that it would invest billions of dollars to develop new combustion engines. This follows an announcement earlier this year that Mercedes would focus on hybrids and PHEVs as demand for electric cars continues to fall. General Motors also intends to launch plug-in hybrids in 2027, while Land Rover also plans to focus on hybrids.
Related
Ineos CEO Says Two New SUVs Are Coming After 2027
The Grenadier will receive smaller and larger siblings, giving consumers more choices. The automaker is also eyeing US production.
There are very few details about the Fusilier, but Ineos saw it as a crucial step in growing as a carmaker. “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,” said Calder when the Fusilier was revealed. It’s worth noting that the automaker is also exploring the possibility of hydrogen-powered vehicles and has plans to introduce a smaller SUV and large off-roader in 2027 – around the same time the Fusilier was due to arrive.
Source:
Bloomberg