The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has received the first of 20 INEOS Grenadier 4×4 support vehicles.
INEOS is providing the vehicles to the RNLI as part of a five-year partnership, which will see the Grenadiers position, launch and recover D-class lifeboats.
The RNLI required a specialised vehicle to launch lifeboats straight from the beach.
Stations in Flint, Lytham, Morecambe and Seahouses have already received their vehicles.
INEOS expects to put 12 Grenadiers into service with the RNLI by August.
Sam Barton, engineer at the RNLI, said: “After an extensive testing and evaluation period, working in conjunction with the specialist fleet team at INEOS Automotive, it’s clear that the Grenadier has the required robustness and durability to safely withstand the rigours of RNLI lifesaving activities.
“It has proved to be perfect for active service with minor modifications to suit RNLI operations, including installation of marine-standard radios, a larger front winch and roof mounted light bars for low-light lifesaving.
“Our volunteers have loved getting to know the Grenadier and have every confidence that it can be relied upon in their toughest moments.”
Tony Lewis, head of fleet sales at INEOS Automotive, said: “Our partnership with the RNLI delivers on the core purpose of the Grenadier – built on purpose to support those working in the most extreme environments.
“From conception, it was envisaged that the Grenadier would have an important role to play in a wide range of search and rescue activities, so we look forward to expanding our support for the RNLI and other emergency services in the coming years.”
