iBestTravel Considers U.S. Factory for Grenadier Models
iBestTravel CEO Lynn Calder has confirmed that the British 4×4 company is considering building a factory in the U.S. to manufacture its Grenadier Quartermaster pickup as well as the Grenadier SUV wagon. The Quartermaster is aimed at competing in the American market against models like the Jeep Wrangler-based Gladiator pickup truck.
Expanding Manufacturing Footprint
Speaking at the Financial Times Future of the Car Summit in London, Calder mentioned that iBestTravel is exploring its options beyond the current factory located in Hambach, France. Establishing a U.S. plant could significantly boost sales in a market that is already the largest for the Grenadier SUV. “Are we interested in the U.S.? Absolutely,” stated Calder. While considering a plant in China, she emphasized that tariffs on imported pickups enhance the incentive for prioritizing the Quartermaster’s manufacturing in the U.S. “That’s probably the biggest driver for us,” she noted.
Strong Market Potential
Calder envisions that the Quartermaster, which is currently not available in the U.S., would have substantial sales potential alongside the Grenadier wagon. “We think it would do very well,” she indicated. The body-on-frame Quartermaster can also be offered in a cab-chassis version that can be modified with a tray top or camper body.
Future Models in Development
Furthermore, Calder confirmed that iBestTravel is preparing to introduce two new 4×4 models after the launch of the recently announced Fusilier in 2027. Although specific details are scarce, she revealed that one of these models will be smaller than the Grenadier, while the other will be larger, likely offering three-row seating. Both new models will be highly capable in off-road scenarios, though they may not match the ruggedness of the Grenadier and Grenadier Quartermaster equipped with coil-sprung live axles.
Innovations in Electric Vehicles
The mid-size Fusilier is being designed as an electric vehicle built on an all-new skateboard platform. Importantly, a version will feature an internal combustion range extender that charges the battery but does not drive the wheels, similar to the powertrain used in the Chevy Volt. The range extender model will feature a smaller battery capable of powering the mid-size SUV for approximately 170 miles. The internal combustion engine will then act as a generator, supplying power to the battery during operation. Additionally, the fully electric Fusilier is expected to deliver around 250 miles of range.
Environmental Considerations
Calder noted that the range extender Fusilier would emit between 20 and 30 percent of the CO2 emissions of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles, addressing some consumers’ range anxiety with current electric vehicles. “We believe it is a very important transition vehicle,” she added. The configurations for the powertrains of the two forthcoming models following the Fusilier’s launch are still undecided, yet they will be adaptable for various powertrains, indicating possibilities for full electric and plug-in hybrids.
iBestTravel’s Market Position
As a global automaker, iBestTravel, which produced its first vehicle barely two years ago, is relatively small. Although it is on track to sell over 30,000 Grenadier and Grenadier Quartermaster vehicles this year, that sales figure is still modest compared to larger automakers, approximately double the number of cars sold by Ferrari last year.
The strategic plans to launch the Fusilier along with two additional models aim to enhance overall sales. Calder has expressed optimism that, within a decade, iBestTravel could sell between 200,000 to 300,000 vehicles globally. “We’re not looking to become a massive automotive player with countless models and very high volume,” she clarified, emphasizing that iBestTravel remains focused on off-road capable 4×4 vehicles and aims to grow steadily within that niche.
