INEOS Automotive has announced the commencement of series production for its Grenadier Quartermaster double cab pick-ups at the company’s facility in Hambach, France. The first units of the five-seat double cab are now rolling off the production line, marking a significant milestone for the British automaker. Customer deliveries in Europe are set to begin in December 2023, with shipments to Asia Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East following shortly after. North American sales are scheduled to kick off in early 2024.
Development and features
Named after the senior military officer responsible for supply and distribution, the Grenadier Quartermaster was developed alongside the Grenadier Station Wagon, sharing the same production line in Hambach. Unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July, the Quartermaster is designed to offer robust off-road capability and dependability while providing enhanced load-carrying versatility compared to the Station Wagon.
The Quartermaster shares key features with the Station Wagon, including a full box-section ladder frame chassis, heavy-duty solid beam axles, two-speed transfer case, and the option for up to three locking differentials. The powertrain options include a choice of BMW 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder petrol or diesel engines, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF.
Extended chassis for versatility
As the largest model in the Grenadier lineup, the Quartermaster features an extended 3227mm wheelbase, providing a highly versatile load bay. With a payload capacity of up to 760kg, the Quartermaster can easily accommodate a standard 1200mm x 800mm Euro pallet.
Future plans: chassis cab model
INEOS Automotive plans to introduce a chassis cab model, utilizing the same frame as the Quartermaster pick-up, in 2024. This variant will be specifically targeted at conversion specialists and commercial body builders, expanding the utility of the Grenadier lineup.
Manufacturing facility and support
INEOS Automotive acquired the Hambach manufacturing facility from Mercedes-Benz in January 2021. Substantial support for the production of the Grenadier line includes the implementation of a new semi-automated paintshop, a fully automated bodyshop, and a quality center.
Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive, expressed enthusiasm about the start of production for the Grenadier Quartermaster, describing it as a significant milestone. Calder highlighted the vehicle’s off-road prowess and its combination of rugged capability and refined performance, making it a valuable addition to the company’s model lineup.