Ineos Automotive has announced Projekt Grenadier’s senior management team, advanced the search for a production site and outlined the engine options currently under consideration (www.ineos.com).

The company has also launched the Projekt Grenadier Web site, revealing new details about the planned 4x4 off-roader, which is intended to carry on where the discontinued Land Rover Defender left off.

Jim Ratcliffe — a British chemical engineer turned financier and industrialist who is the chairman and chief executive officer of the Ineos chemicals group, which he founded in 1998 and still owns two thirds of — first came up with the idea of building the vehicle while at The Grenadier pub in London’s Belgravia, which is where the Web site’s launch event took place.

Ineos has committed to spending £600 million on the Projekt Grenadier off-roader; it expectsto create up to 7,000 direct and indirect jobs.

A range of models is planned for sale across the world, including multiple wheel-base options, as well as diesel, petrol and hybrid engines to suit different markets.

The company expects the 4x4 to attract explorers, farmers and off-road enthusiasts, as well as city dwellers seeking adventure.

Mr Ratcliffe said: “The building of our new 4x4 is an adventure story in itself. Ineos is used to taking on big innovative projects and delivering them safely on time and on budget.

Furthermore, we have vast amounts of manufacturing and engineering expertise, and a proven track record of success; we look forward to applying this to create a world-class 4x4.”