Move over Land Rover, there’s a new SUV player on the block, determined to bring back the very best in old school off-road design to a new generation of drivers.
Chemical giant Ineos, who today was announced as the new sponsors of Team Sky cycling, have announced another partnership, with BMW to assist in the production of its new SUV vehicle.
The company which is owned by the UK’s richest man, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is looking to develop a major player on the SUV scene which promises 'no-frills utilitarianism, complete purity of purpose, unquestionable authenticity and ultimate engineering integrity'.
Under the moniker of ‘Projekt Grenadier’, BMW will assist in the production of the engine, with TwinPower petrol and diesel engines. Ineos have already partnered with MB tech, a sidearm of Mercedes-Benz, to assist in the engineering, and they are also working with Magna International to develop the chassis. Magna’s list of clients includes Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW and Toyota.
"This technology partnership is a very significant milestone for Projekt Grenadier – we are delighted BMW Group will supply engines for our new off-roader," said Dirk Heilmann, CEO of INEOS Automotive. "Its reputation as a maker of extremely reliable, high performance engines that offer total durability, efficiency and quality is second to none."
"Simply put, it builds the best engines in the world. Working with BMW Group is another major step forward in ensuring we deliver on our vision to build an uncompromising 4×4 with the ultimate in engineering integrity."
The company has had a steady growth of staff in recent months, with almost 50 full-timers on the admin side of the business. Ford’s factory in Bridgend has been earmarked as the location for production, though there are thought to be a number of options on the table.