BEIJING: The Ineos Grenadier 4X4 has launched in China.
Its arrival there follows the successful introduction of Ineos Automotive in over 40 countries worldwide – including in Mexico last week.
However, the global expansion comes as Ineos is confronted by a key issue.
Production of the Grenadier and the Grenadier Quartermaster at the company's Hambach plant in France are suspended until 2025 because of a supplier problem.
Although the supplier wasn't named, it's believed to be Recaro, which had filed for bankruptcy in July.
Ineos, meanwhile, will have to tap into existing inventory as it strives to overcome this major production problem.
In China, the Grenadier will initially be available at four retail sites.
Stores in Beijing and Chengdu are already opened, with sites in Shanghai and Guangzhou opening within the next four weeks. As well as a full brand and retail experience, these sites will also provide customers with aftersales support.
Ineos Automotive has spent two years planning the Grenadier’s introduction to China, including establishing a national sales company and recruiting a team to work with strong local retail partners.
Customer deliveries will start before the end of October with pricing starting at 808,000 yuan (RM475,000).
Having established strong businesses in other key regions – the UK, North America, South Africa, Australia and Europe – Ineos Automotive’s subsidiary business in China is its first in Asia, representing a significant new addition to its global sales footprint.
The Grenadier combines rugged British design with German engineering is billed as a tough, go-anywhere off-road vehicle with modern comfort, refinement and quality standards.
The backbone of the Grenadier is a full box-section ladder frame chassis, with heavy-duty solid beam axles, a two-speed transfer case and up to three locking differentials.
Power comes from a choice of BMW 3.0-litre turbo-charged inline six-cylinder petrol or diesel engines, which have been specifically calibrated for this application. Power is relayed to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The diesel engine produces 245hp and 550Nm of torque (1,250-3,000rpm), while the petrol engine makes 282hp and 450Nm of torque (1,750-4,000rpm).
Practical features include a 70:30 split rear door, integrated roof bars, pre-wiring for auxiliary lamps and accessories, and a front bumper to sit on. An "open-source" approach to accessories means owners can tailor the vehicle to their specific requirements.
The interior with an intuitive and functional layout features physical switches that are widely spaced for easy use on the move. A central infotainment touchscreen gives quick access to a range of information displays and settings menus.
An overhead console provides controls and switches for off-road and auxiliary controls. The vehicle also boasts hose-out rubber flooring, Recaro leather seats and numerous stowage options.
