In the driving seat at the Midlands Machinery Show

The INEOS Grenadier off-roader has received a lot of press, with its brand new manufacturer promising big things – but what are they actually like? Visitors to this year’s Midlands Machinery Show (MMS) can find out for themselves on the popular 4x4 course. 

Fencing and forestry contractor, Ben Willey, who helps to set up Newark showground for the show, is the proud owner of an INEOS. “Off the back of having a range of 4x4 vehicles over the years, I wanted something that promised to be a good and robust running vehicle,” he says.  

He did thorough research before placing an order. “It was designed by Magna in Austria, so even though INEOS is a new manufacturer, there’s pedigree behind the vehicle,” says Mr Willey. “Its axles are made by an Italian tractor axle manufacturer, and it has a BMW engine and ZF auto gearbox, which I definitely wanted - this engine in various forms is well over 20 years old and tried and tested. 

“It's also being built in what is formally a Mercedes factory by their trained workforce – so it ticked all the boxes for me.” 

When he placed his order in May 2022 for the two-seat utility model - which was still in the prototype stage - he hadn’t driven one for himself; until the 2022 MMS. “The first time I drove one was on the 4x4 course at the show last year. As soon as I drove it I knew it had the capability that I wanted,” he says. 

For those who are on the fence about INEOS, they can head to the 4x4 course at the show, for a ride-and-drive experience – thanks to Sandicliffe and Chandlers Farm Vehicles.  

There will also be a chance to be driven by a professional 4x4 driver, in a Ford Wildtrak from Woldmarsh.  

Those who have their sights set on something larger can have a go at driving an HGV under the supervision of a professional trainer, thanks to Diamond Driver Training. “It’s for anyone – young or old - who would like to have a go, whether they are thinking of doing license training, or just want to experience driving an HGV,” says Karl Hunt, trainer at Diamond Driver Training. 

“And anyone thinking of taking up training can have a chat with us and discuss the process.” 

Visitors interested in getting into the hot seat of either the 4x4 or HGV driving experiences should head over to the respective stands to get booked in. “The driving experiences at the show are always a highlight for many visitors, and the show staff alike,” says Elizabeth Halsall, show organiser. 

“We look forward to seeing the vehicles put through their paces by the visitors and the professional drivers on hand.” 

Registration and parking are free but pre-registration is required for the Midlands Machinery Show, which runs on 8-9 November at the Newark Showground. NRoSO and BASIS points are also available for attendees. Register here: https://midlandsmachineryshow.ticketsrv.co.uk/tickets/visitor