A new specialist rescue vehicle based on the INEOS Grenadier 4×4 platform has been officially launched for the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team in Killarney National Park. The vehicle, known as the INEOS Grenadier Medic, has been developed to support search and rescue operations across some of Ireland’s most challenging terrain. It will play an important role in helping the volunteer team respond quickly and safely to incidents in remote mountain environments and during severe weather conditions. Kerry Mountain Rescue Team is one of Ireland’s longest established mountain rescue organisations. The team currently has 35 active volunteer members trained in casualty care, technical rope rescue, search management and remote evacuation. The addition of the new Grenadier Medic will significantly enhance the team’s operational capability across the mountains of Kerry and surrounding regions.
The INEOS Grenadier Medic was supplied by Orangeworks Automotive following a competitive tender process in 2025. The project forms part of a broader initiative to develop specialist off road patient transport vehicles capable of bridging the gap between remote terrain and road based emergency services. The Grenadier platform was selected following extensive evaluation and field testing due to its durability, off road performance and suitability for demanding rescue operations. The vehicle is designed to safely transport casualties from remote locations to road access points where they can be transferred to fully equipped ambulance services for onward medical treatment. To support its role in mountain rescue operations, the Kerry Mountain Rescue vehicle has been fitted with a wide range of specialist equipment and operational upgrades. These include front, centre and rear differential locks, a raised air intake, a heavy duty 5.5 tonne winch, full underbody protection, rock sliders, roof rack and auxiliary lighting. The vehicle is also equipped with enhanced communications systems to support operations in challenging environments.
Additional equipment carried on board includes snow chains, fire extinguishers and a specialised stretcher conversion designed for safe casualty transport. A Starlink connectivity system has also been installed to ensure reliable communications in remote locations where traditional mobile phone coverage may be limited. As part of the overall partnership, Orangeworks Automotive will also provide Adverse Weather Driver Training for Kerry Mountain Rescue volunteers. This training will help ensure team members can operate the vehicle safely and effectively across difficult terrain and during extreme weather conditions. The vehicle was funded through grant support secured by Kerry Mountain Rescue Team. Additional equipment, operational upgrades and volunteer training have been provided by Orangeworks Automotive as part of its ongoing charity partnership with the organisation. Members of Kerry Mountain Rescue, including John Hussey and Mike Finn, attended the launch alongside local representatives and government ministers.
Those present at the event included Councillor Tommy Cahill, TD Michael Cahill, Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary, Minister Norma Foley, Councillor and Deputy Cathaoirleach Marie Moloney, Councillor Anne O’Sullivan and Councillor Niall Kelliher. TD Michael Healy Rae was also in attendance.
