Overview of the Recall

In a significant development, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos Automotive has announced a recall affecting over 7,000 Grenadier SUVs in the United States. This recall is triggered by a serious safety concern: the vehicle's door latches may fail to secure properly, posing a risk of doors flying open while the vehicle is in motion. Such a malfunction could potentially endanger passengers, increasing the likelihood of injury during operation.

Company Response

To address the issue, Ineos Automotive has committed to replacing all defective door button assemblies at no cost to the owners. The affected models were manufactured between July 6, 2023, and April 19, 2024. Preliminary investigations reveal that the door button mechanisms may have been incorrectly assembled, lacking sufficient lubrication, which could prevent the doors from latching securely.

Context of the Recall

This recall is another hurdle for Ineos Automotive, which recently faced manufacturing delays due to the insolvency of a key parts supplier. Despite these setbacks, the Grenadier SUV remains a focal point for the company, having launched in 2022 as a modern homage to the classic Land Rover Defender—an inspiration that stemmed from Sir Jim Ratcliffe's disappointment over the cessation of Defender production by Jaguar Land Rover.

Current Landscape and Financial Performance

As of now, there are approximately 20,000 Grenadiers operating across 50 countries. However, Ineos Automotive reported significant financial losses, exceeding 1.4 billion euros (approximately $1.5 billion) before tax in 2023, highlighting the uphill battle the automaker faces in solidifying its position in the competitive automotive market.

About Sir Jim Ratcliffe

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a prominent figure and Manchester United co-owner with a 27.7% stake in the club, has seen grand ambitions for Ineos in the automotive sphere. From advocating for Brexit to influencing the production landscape in France instead of Wales, his vision for Ineos is both ambitious and impactful.

Call to Action for Owners

Owners of the Grenadier SUVs are urged to contact Ineos Automotive to schedule the necessary repairs as part of this recall. Stay tuned as we bring you updates on this developing story!