INEOS Automotive’s Hambach plant in Germany has resumed production of its Grenadier and Quartermaster 4×4 vehicles. The restart follows the resolution of a critical seat shortage caused by a supplier’s insolvency at the end of last year.
Lynn Calder, CEO of INEOS Automotive, expressed optimism about the year ahead. “This is a great start to the year for us, and I believe it will be our best yet,” she said. “We achieved over 40% growth year-on-year in 2024, and we’re proud to have more than 20,000 Grenadiers on roads worldwide. New markets like Mexico and China have driven demand, but we had to pause production due to the seat shortage. It’s encouraging to hear the familiar sounds of vehicles rolling through quality checks again. We have some catching up to do, but we’re ready for the challenge.”
The Hambach plant is now entering its third year of Grenadier series production. Customer orders are already being fulfilled, with the first vehicle—a Scottish White five-seat Utility Wagon—rolling off the line on January 16. It was followed by two Devil Red models, a bold new exterior color option.
Devil Red introduces an 11th color choice for the Grenadier Station Wagon and Quartermaster. Customers can pair the solid red with a white or black contrast roof. Additionally, the Grenadier 1924, a special edition celebrating Belstaff’s centenary, is also in production. Limited to 1,924 units, this model features premium design elements and lifestyle accessories, offering a blend of style and durability for 4×4 enthusiasts.
The plant has also made space for future INEOS developments by dismantling the now-defunct Smart ForTwo production line, which ended last year.
Philippe Steyer, President of INEOS Automotive SAS, thanked customers, suppliers, and the production team for their patience during the challenging period. “We are proud of our Hambach facility,” he said. “Its reopening reflects the determination and discipline that define INEOS. We’re ready to build on the strong foundations laid last year.”
The restart marks a significant step forward for INEOS Automotive as it aims to meet growing global demand and expand its product offerings.
