OIL CAPS: News briefs from the week

Ineos Automotive has revealed its smaller sibling for the Grenadier off-roader; the Fusilier, a more road-oriented SUV has a choice of two powertrains: a full EV or a rangeextender version. Unveiled in London by Ineos founder and chairman, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, it was confirmed that alongside the all-electric version, the range-extender is in development to ensure the Fusilier meets

“the broadest range of global consumer needs whilst pushing towards decarbonisation”. The range-extender will consist of a small petrol engine that powers a generator to charge the battery when external charging isn’t available.

Film and TV memorabilia vendor Propstore is to auction the “Captain America” Panhead chopper motorcycle from the 1969 cult classic Easy Rider, starring Peter Fonda. The first Entertainment Memorabilia Live Auction of 2024, from March 12-14, features over 1700 lots, with the highlight being one of the two motorcycles Fonda used in the film. The auction is expected to fetch upwards of NZ$12.9 million in total sales. ltiEasy Rider, a film that became an emblem of 1960s American counterculture, featured in one of that cinematic era's most memorable scenes. In the climax, the motorcycle, ridden by Peter Fonda's character, Wyatt, meets a tragic end.

Tesla Cybertruck owner and YouTuber TechRax has navigated the electric ute through water, marking one of the first real-world applications of the vehicle’s “wade mode”. Despite Tesla’s warning that such activity is not covered under warranty, this test highlights the Cybertruck’s off-road capabilities. Tesla CEO Elon Musk has previously asserted that Tesla vehicles can temporarily function as boats, a claim met with scepticism. However, Musk’s claim gains more weight with the new ute. Last year, Musk confidently stated: “Cybertruck will be waterproof enough to . . . cross rivers, lakes and even seas that aren’t too choppy.”