Ineos Automotive has decided to postpone the debut of its electric off-road vehicle, the Fusilier, citing consumer hesitancy towards electric vehicles (EVs) and regulatory uncertainties, the company informed British Autocar on Tuesday.
Originally slated as Ineos’ first electric vehicle following two combustion models, the Fusilier was unveiled in late February with plans to offer both fully electric and petrol range-extender options. However, the carmaker has now halted its launch plans indefinitely, pointing to evolving challenges in the EV market landscape.
See also: Ineos Considers U.S. Production for Grenadier Pickup, Expands SUV Lineup
“While EV charging infrastructure is expanding and consumer confidence is growing, long-term clarity from policymakers and diverse technological solutions are essential to achieve net-zero targets,” Ineos Automotive stated to Autocar. Regulatory factors, including potential restrictions on range-extended vehicles post-2035 in Europe and the UK, further complicated the decision-making process.
Details on performance specifications and market release timelines for the Fusilier, initially scheduled for confirmation in autumn 2024, have been put on hold pending clearer market conditions.
See also: Ineos Unveils Fusilier: A New Electric Off-Roader with Range Extender Option
Ineos had collaborated with automotive supplier Magna for the development of the Fusilier, continuing a successful partnership established during the creation of its previous models, the Grenadier and Quartermaster pickup trucks. While these earlier models relied on combustion engines, the Fusilier represented Ineos’ ambitious leap into the EV segment, leveraging Magna’s manufacturing expertise.
