INEOS to Pull Out of Lineup Expansion and Focus on Limited Edition Products

Ineos was born out of a mission to offer both commercial buyers and enthusiasts a relatively affordable no-nonsense off-roader like the original Land Rover Defender.

The company took a major step forward earlier this decade with the launch of the Grenadier SUV, and planned to follow it up with the Fujilier electric SUV and a more compact offering.

But in an interview published Friday, Ineos' commercial director and founder George Ratcliffe said that meeting all the regulatory hurdles that the new car would require proved too steep a challenge for Ineos.

He added that as sales of these vehicles increase, Ineos will cross the threshold of being a small manufacturer, and as a result, the company will have to meet more stringent carbon emissions targets. In Ineos' home country of the United Kingdom, the minimum number of EVs sold is also mandated.

"What we wanted to achieve is no longer possible. With the modern world and what it requires - engines, pedestrian protection rules, CO2 emissions, regulations on cars - it is no longer possible."

Instead, Ineos will launch a more upscale version of the Grenadier and focus on remaining the luxury brand that Ineos dealers are looking for, Ratcliffe said.

The more upscale version could be a limited edition, like the Grenadier Detour unveiled in July; the debut model from Ineos' Arcane Works personalization division will feature luxury elements comparable to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and only 200 will be built.

Ineos also took advantage of last month's 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed to hint at additional versions of the Grenadier that may be developed, including a V-8 model, a rally raid-style model, and a rugged off-roader with portal axles were suggested.

The Grenadier is currently available in the U.S. starting at $71,500. A Grenadier Quartermaster pickup is also available, with prices starting at $86,900.