Delays in Ineos Fusilier production attributed to high demand for electric vehicles and tariff issues

Ineos, a British carmaker, has announced a delay in the launch of its electric model, the Fusilier. This decision was made due to a decrease in consumer demand for electric vehicles and concerns related to tariffs. The SUV was initially unveiled in 2024 as a smaller alternative to the Grenadier, but its production, which was scheduled for 2027, has been postponed.

The company cited industry uncertainty surrounding tariffs, timings, and taxation as additional factors contributing to the delay. In an email to Automotive News Europe, Ineos highlighted the need for long-term clarity from policymakers. No new timeline has been provided yet, so the exact launch date of the Fusilier remains unknown.

Although specific technical details of the Fusilier were not disclosed at the unveiling, Ineos had plans to offer two variants of the model – an electric version and a plug-in hybrid model with a gasoline range extender. It is unclear if both drivetrains have been delayed or if the plug-in hybrid will still enter production by the end of 2027.

The Fusilier was showcased as a design mock-up and through computer-generated images, featuring rugged styling reminiscent of the Grenadier. The development of the EV seems to have been halted early in the process, despite having enlisted the expertise of Magna, an Austrian engineering firm known for building vehicles like the Grenadier, Mercedes-Benz G-Class, and Toyota Supra.

Ineos is expected to provide more information about the future of the Fusilier project in the coming months. Meanwhile, the brand has commenced production of its first pickup, the Quartermaster, based on the Grenadier platform, at the Hambach factory in France, formerly home to Smart car production.

Unpredictability in the EV market and tariff conflicts have led many automakers to reevaluate their launch strategies. Volvo postponed the introduction of the EX30 to 2025, Nissan halted development of electric sedans and a significant investment in its plant, Volkswagen’s ID.7 faces indefinite delays, Ford deferred two EV projects, and General Motors is adjusting its EV production timeline.