2021 Ineos Grenadier: first prototype caught testing in disguise
First unofficial fighting of Grenadier prototype shows rugged 4x4 gets classic design inspired by Land Rover Defender
The soon-to-be-unveiled Ineos Grenadier 4x4 has been seen for the first time in revealing spyshots of a disguised prototype.
Caught at what looks like a top-secret UK testing facility, it's the first sighting of the back-to-basics model ahead of anticipated reveal in the coming weeks.
Although we knew that this would be an uncompromising off-road car developed in the mould of the original Land Rover Defender, the spyshots confirm that car's boxy exterior provides heavy inspiration. From the front, we can also see a likeness to early versions of the Mercedes G-Wagen.
The clearest Defender inspiration is at the front, where the Grenadier appears to share the same round headlamp and horizontal bar grille design. The rear gives less away - the prototype has no back windows, suggesting either heavy disguise or that this is a commercial variant of some sort.
Earlier this year a series of behind-the-scenes videos were released on the Ineos website ahead of a supposedly imminent a full debut for the rugged 4x4. viewers were given an in-depth look at the Grenadier's box-section ladder frame chassis and beam-axle front and rear suspension. Both have long been staples of dedicated off-road vehicles, and Ineos is looking to continue that tradition.
“A ladder frame is the only way to build a proper off-road vehicle 4x4,” chief engineer for vehicle integration Andreas Albrecht said. “We are not using a monocoque, because we are not building an SUV.”
The video is also interspersed with vehicles tackling rough terrain across the globe. The first-generation Land Rover Discovery, which also sat atop a ladder chassis and used beam axles, appears to show much influence on the Grenadier's development.
The first car built by the British company, owned by chemicals magnate Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Grenadier is set to be an uncompromised off-roader in the mould of the original Land Rover Defender.
Ineos has already confirmed that the Grenadier will use BMW's latest 3.0-litre straight-six petrol and diesel engines and will be manufactured at a new factory in Bridgend, Wales.
Engineering firm Magna Steyr, responsible for producing the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Jaguar I-Pace and Toyota GR Supra, will assist in bringing the 4x4 to series production.
The Grenadier is expected set to go on sale to customers in early 2021.
*READ MORE*
*Ineos partners with major engineering firm on Grenadier development*
*Official: Ineos confirms Bridgend factory for Grenadier 4x4*
*Ineos confirms BMW engines for 2021 Projekt Grenadier 4x4*