Ineos to develop 4×4 off-roader

Petrochemical supplier Ineos Group Ltd. has announced plans to invest “hundreds of millions of pounds” to develop a new 4×4 vehicle.

In a statement, Rolle, Switzerland-based Ineos said it will set up a new division, Ineos Automotive, and expects to spend “many hundreds of millions” on developing a 4×4 vehicle that could fill the gap in the market left by the Defender, which has been discontinued by Jaguar Land Rover.

“Following the completion of a six-month feasibility study, Ineos has confirmed that it is to go ahead and build a brand new ‘uncompromising’ 4×4 off-roader,” the statement said. “Whilst the company is one of the largest manufacturers in the world, it will be the first time that Ineos has produced such a vehicle.”

Ineos wants to sell the vehicle for less than 50,000 pounds, and will aim it at farmers, foresters, explorers and enthusiasts. The company is looking to manufacture the off-roader in the UK – although it is also considering options in Europe – with the first cars potentially available from 2020. Ineos Automotive could employ up to 1,000 people if the venture is successful.

“I am a great admirer of the old Land Rover Defender and have enormous respect for its off road capability, and our new 4 x4 has been inspired by it,” said Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos chairman. “But while our off-roader might share its spirit, our new car will be a major improvement on previous models.”

Ineos has 45 manufacturing sites around the world making petrochemicals, including polymers such as PE, PP, PS, and PVS.