Developed in partnership with Austrian engineering consultancy AVL, the Grenadier Demonstrator is based around BMW’s newest hydrogen fuel cell and zero-emissions powertrain, claimed by INEOS to be the most powerful in the automotive sector. The company had previously worked with Hyundai on the concept of a fuel cell for the Grenadier.
Engineers at INEOS Automotive were able to integrate BMW's H2 powertrain by modifying the Grenadier’s ladder frame and rear axle, with the electric drive units delivering ‘true torque vectoring’ drive control to each rear wheel. This torque vectoring provides the vehicle with what INEOS has called ‘gecko capability’, enhancing control in off-road conditions and tightening the turning circle.
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According to INEOS, the hydrogen vehicle is identical to the production Grenadier apart from a bonnet power bulge to accommodate the additional height of the fuel cell. However, the company says this will not be present if the fuel cell model goes into production.
“INEOS produces 400,000 tonnes of hydrogen per annum and is committed to hydrogen as a key fuel of the future,” said Lynn Calder, INEOS Automotive CEO.
“The hydrogen powered Grenadier Demonstrator is an extraordinary vehicle, capable of doing everything a conventionally powered Grenadier can do but with zero emissions. Now we need the UK Government to provide the infrastructure to support the growth of the hydrogen economy as part of its move to a zero emissions future.”
The Grenadier Demonstrator has been under development since June 2022, when INEOS Automotive partnered with AVL. Before arriving at Goodwood, the vehicle underwent rigorous testing to ensure the H2 variant matched the capabilities and towing capacities of the combustion engine Grenadier. Like the other versions of the Grenadier, the demonstrator has been put through its paces on a variety of trails in the Austrian mountains as well as in offroad challenges around AVL’s base in Graz.
“The hydrogen powered Grenadier Demonstrator along with our all-electric model due in 2026, shows INEOS commitment to net zero,” Calder continued.
“BEVs are perfect for certain uses, shorter trips, most private car journeys and urban deliveries, whilst Hydrogen FCEVs are more suited for longer trips, heavy duty cycles where batteries impact too much on payload and where long range between stops is necessary.”
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