OFF-ROAD vehicle specialist Ineos Automotive has revealed its hydrogen fuelled Grenadier Demonstrator at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The 4X4 emits nothing but water vapour and demonstrates Ineos's belief that hydrogen is a key fuel of the future.

The hydrogen Grenadier Demonstrator is identical to the production Grenadier apart from a bonnet power bulge to accommodate the additional height of the fuel cell, but the company says this would not be present in a production model.

The project to develop a hydrogen fuelled Grenadier began in June 2022, when the business partnered with Austrian engineering supplier/powertrain consultancy, AVL, to develop the current vehicle with a clear ambition - zero emissions with no compromise to the 4X4 experience.

The 4X4 uses BMW Group's latest hydrogen fuel cell, zero-emissions powertrain, considered the most advanced and powerful in the automotive sector.

Ineos engineers have modified the Grenadier's ladder frame chassis and rear axle to accommodate the zero emission powertrain to fit the electric drive units which deliver torque vectoring to each wheel.

The capabilities of torque vectoring result in what Ineos calls ‘gecko capability' - outstanding control and manoeuvrability in all off-road conditions, as well as a tighter turning circle and enhanced on-road driving dynamics.

The hydrogen Grenadier Demonstrator has undergone rigorous testing to ensure there has been no compromise to its on- and off-road capabilities or towing capacities. Like other versions of the Grenadier, the demonstrator has conquered the notorious trails of the Austrian mountains and the various offroad challenges around Graz.

Lynn Calder, chief executive of Ineos Automotive, said: "The hydrogen powered Grenadier Demonstrator along with our all-electric model due in 2026, shows Ineos commitment to net zero.

"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.

"Ineos also produces 400,000 tonnes of hydrogen per annum and is committed to hydrogen as a key fuel of the future.

"Our demonstrator proves that the technology is capable, but what we need now is support from policy makers to help provide the infrastructure for the next generation of hydrogen vehicles."

"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."