Community, Sponsorship

INEOS Partners with SARDA NZ for Life-Saving Missions

Community Sponsorship
14 August 2024
INEOS

The Rescue Dogs Get New Rides

In a powerful collaboration, INEOS Automotive has partnered with New Zealand’s Search and Rescue Avalanche Dogs (SARDA), providing two of their rugged Grenadier 4X4 vehicles to bolster emergency response efforts across the country’s most challenging alpine regions. This partnership underscores the commitment of both organisations to ensuring the safety and well-being of those who venture into New Zealand’s rugged and often treacherous mountain terrains.

The INEOS Grenadier, known for its unparalleled off-road capability, is the perfect fit for SARDA’s vital mission. With a robust box-section ladder frame chassis, heavy-duty solid beam axles, and up to three locking differentials, the Grenadier is purpose-built to navigate the unsealed roads and varied terrains that define much of New Zealand’s high country. These features, combined with a two-speed transfer case, ensure that the Grenadier can reliably perform in the toughest conditions, making it an essential tool in SARDA’s life-saving operations.

The vehicles will be strategically stationed in the Christchurch-Canterbury and Southern Lakes regions, ensuring rapid deployment in critical situations. Custom modifications have been made to the Grenadiers, including the installation of lightweight, state-of-the-art dog kennels and a sophisticated WiFi communications hub. These enhancements are designed to protect both the rescue dogs and their handlers, while maintaining seamless communication with other emergency crews during missions.

Justin Hocevar, Head of Region, Asia Pacific at INEOS Automotive, emphasised the vehicle’s suitability for such demanding conditions, stating, “The Grenadier has undergone extensive testing in some of the world’s toughest environments, so it’s the ideal support vehicle for such challenging terrain. SARDA performs a vital role in exceptional circumstances, and we are very proud to be providing this support for its life-saving operations this winter season, and beyond.”

Karyn Robertson, National Coordinator of SARDA NZ, highlighted the significant impact the Grenadiers will have on their rescue operations. “Having access to the Grenadiers will make a huge difference to our rescue operations. In the event of an avalanche, the vehicle can deploy handlers and dogs quickly and safely to help sweep the area. With numerous unsealed roads and various terrains, robust 4X4 vehicles like the Grenadier are the best and safest choice.”

The partnership between INEOS Automotive and SARDA is more than just a union of resources; it’s a shared commitment to safeguarding lives in one of the world’s most challenging environments. As these two Grenadiers take their place in SARDA’s operations, they bring with them the promise of reliability, durability, and the assurance that when an emergency strikes, they will be there to support the courageous teams and their incredible avalanche dogs who work tirelessly to keep New Zealand’s alpine adventurers safe.

For those inspired by the Grenadier’s rugged capabilities, you can experience the true power of this extraordinary vehicle yourself. Visit your local Armstrong’s INEOS dealership and discover firsthand why the Grenadier is trusted in the world’s most demanding conditions.

Experience an adventure in the INEOS Grenadier
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