Motoring with Bob Roco ROMEO: ION Motors unveils INEOS Grenadier onto domestic market

ION Motors Ghana, a subsidiary of Japan Motors, has launched the INEOS Grenadier – an off-roader 4×4 vehicle – into the domestic automobile space.

The vehicle combines British design, German engineering, and is specially built for Africa on 3 main pillars— off-road capability; durability; and reliability and design, with its powerful BMW engines, 8 speed gearbox and high-quality interior.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony in Accra, Executive Director of Japan Motors, Nouhad Jalal Kalmoni, said the introduction of the new brand demonstrates the unwavering commitment to meeting the evolving needs of customers and to delivering products of high quality on the market.

Recognising the dedication and expertise of INEOS Automotive to the development of the brand, he added that the new INEOS Grenadier is not just any vehicle, but one that is exceptional and instrumental to filling a crucial gap in the market.

“This INEOS Granadier is not just another vehicle. It is a symbol of durability, innovation and excellence. It embodies the spirit of reliability, resilience and uncompromising performance. With its design and top-notch engineering, it is built to withstand the toughest terrains while providing comfort and performance to exceed and surpass expectations.

“It is a vehicle that we need in our range, and I believe that it has good potential to fulfil the needs for customers,” he told journalists in an interview on the side-lines of the event.

According to him, the vehicle is especially suitable for adventuring, going on treks or for users like those in the mines or construction companies who need very solid and dependable cars on-site.

On his part, the Head of sub-Saharan Africa market of INEOS Automotive, Gilles Masier, reiterated the company’s commitment to the African market, saying that with over €1.5billion investment so far, the firm’s goal is to cement its presence in the region.

“This vehicle was created with Africa in mind. In total, INEOS Group has invested over €1.5billion and we are here for the long run. We are developing several other products, including a double-cab pick-up which will be coming to Ghana next quarter and an electric 4×4 which will go into production in 2026.

“We have big ambitions for the continent; and straight from the start, we wanted to be present in the key markets in Africa. So, for the 1st year, we are already in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, Senegal and here in Ghana,” he said.

Recounting the inspiration behind the INEOS Grenadier brand, Masier noted that the story began from the company’s owner, Jim Ratcliffe’s emotional connection and passion as an explorer and adventurer who spends his free time riding off road motorbikes and driving 4x4s in remote areas around the globe, especially in Africa. Over the years, however, Mr. Ratcliffe realised that while automotive manufacturers launch many SUV models, there are very few 4×4 brands that he can take on a safari or over-landing journey. Also, these few 4×4 vehicles have been around for quite a while and are not the most modern; hence, his decision to make his own 4×4 – The Grenadier.

Mr. Masier further indicated that the company partnered the best suppliers in the automotive industry, such as X Magna Steyr, BMW, ZF, Carraro and Tremech. It also acquired an ultra-modern manufacturing facility from Mercedes Benz with one of the best track records of quality build in Europe, located at the French/German border.

“The result is a vehicle which is extremely capable off-road, unstoppable on any ground or surface. We went onto a 1.8-million-kilometres testing journey to ensure that durability and reliability were there, and we could not break it. Today is a big milestone for INEOS Africa as we open our 6th retail facility,” he added.

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