Sir Jim Ratcliffe: Man Utd co-owner's firm recalls SUVs over risk of doors flying open

Ineos Automotive, the car manufacturer owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, has announced a recall of over 7,000 sport utility vehicles (SUVs) in the United States. The recall aims to address potential safety hazards in the vehicles and ensure passenger safety.

The company stated that "in a small number of cases," the doors of the Grenadier SUV may open while the vehicle is in motion, "increasing the risk of injury to vehicle occupants." A spokesperson revealed to the BBC that "due to insufficient grease application, the exterior door release button may remain in the depressed position, preventing the door from latching safely."

To resolve this issue, Ineos has stated it will replace all door button assemblies on affected vehicles free of charge. The recall involves Ineos Grenadier SUVs manufactured between July 6, 2023, and April 19, 2024. Documents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that the door button mechanisms in affected vehicles may not have been sufficiently lubricated during assembly, which could cause the exterior door button to remain depressed and prevent the door from fully latching.

A company spokesperson said: "We are taking action to replace the door lock mechanisms on all affected vehicles as quickly as possible. We will be contacting all owners of affected vehicles directly." This recall is the latest issue faced by the car company. Last year, the company had to temporarily halt production due to the bankruptcy of one of its parts suppliers.

The Grenadier, launched in 2022, is the first model produced by Ineos Automotive and its design was inspired by the iconic Land Rover Defender. Sir Jim founded the car company out of his disappointment with Jaguar Land Rover's decision to cease production of the Defender. The company states that there are currently around 20,000 Grenadiers driving in 50 countries worldwide. According to filings with Companies House, the UK's registrar of companies, Ineos Automotive recorded pre-tax losses of over €1.4 billion (£1.1 billion, $1.5 billion) in 2023. Sir Jim is one of the wealthiest people in the UK and owns a 27.7% stake in Manchester United.