INEOS is planning a new mid-sizer, called the Fusilier, which has been in developmental stasis since July 2024, with regulatory hurdles and an unpredictable landscape of EV take-up to juggle. But that could be set to change thanks to a reported tie-up with Chinese giant, Chery.
While only in early stages of discussion, it is expected that technology from Chery’s iCaur (nee iCar) V27 could see the Fusilier utilise that car’s 22kWh or 33kWh battery in conjunction with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine as a range extender.
Such technology is similar to what the Jaecoo J7 SHS offers in Australia – also a Chery-owned company. Interestingly, though, the V27 has outputs of up to 334kW – monstrous numbers for a mainstream SUV. This would boost the appeal of the Fusilier considerably.
Chery, eager to side-step the EU’s heavy tariffs (up to 45.3 per cent) on imported Chinese cars, is, according to an Autocar report, looking for partnerships to improve its foothold on the continent.
The Fusilier would complement the Grenadier and Grenadier Quartermaster ute, both spawned to fill the gap left by the old Land Rover Defender as a rugged, traditional off-road SUV.
Other carmakers said to be in talks with Chery include Maserati. Though, this is just a rumour at this stage.
