22 August 2023
|
New model: The Ineos Quartermaster DCPU
: credit: © Ineos
WARNING: The following story contains no Land Rover content… Yes, we’re talking Ineos again, and this time the Goodwood Festival of Speed
The car manufacturer revealed its second model, the Quartermaster at the Festival. The double cab pick-up offers 264mm of ground clearance, 800mm wading depth and, so Ineos claims, its approach, breakover and departure angles are unrivalled by any other series production pick-up.
It’s powered by the same BMW 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines and eight-speed ZF automatic transmission as seen in its stablemate, and the same 3500kg towing capacity. In fact, it shares most of its architecture and components with the Station Wagon, but because the ladder chassis is 305mm longer it means a larger and more versatile load bay that’s big enough to carry a 1200mm x 800mm pallet, should you need to.
It’s a credible off-road alternative to the Defender, but with prices starting north of £66,000 it’s a pricey workhorse. For technical specifications and options, visit www.ineosgrenadier.com.
Demonstrating a zero emission future
During the same famous motoring event Ineos also revealed its zero emissions 4x4, which uses the BMW Group’s latest hydrogen fuel cell powertrain, and has been developed in partnership with Austrian engineering consultancy, AVL.
The flexibility of the Grenadier platform allowed Ineos engineers to integrate the powertrain by modifying the ladder frame and rear axle, accommodating the electric drive units to deliver torque vectoring drive control to each rear wheel. The system is said to deliver outstanding control and manoeuvrability in all off-road conditions, as well as a tighter turning circle and enhanced on-road driving dynamics.
To get to this point, the hydrogen-powered Grenadier demonstrator has undergone rigorous testing and conquered the notorious trails of the Austrian mountains and the various all-terrain challenges around Graz.
The hydrogen-powered Grenadier (along with an all-electric model due in 2026) shows Ineos’ commitment to net zero. However, without the support from policy makers to help provide the infrastructure for the next generation of hydrogen vehicles, its value is questionable.