U.K. firm Fering unveils its hardcore fabric-bodied, bio-diesel-fuelled, 7,000km range off-roader

Fering, a new U.K.-based firm and brainchild of ex Ferrari and McLaren Engineer Ben Scott-Geddes, has unveiled the Pioneer, a low-emissions hardcore off-roader designed for adventurers, explorers, and emergency services.

Despite its imposing appearance, the Fering Pioneer is described as being similar in size to a typical delivery van.

The Fering Pioneer is powered solely by two electric motors, providing a total of 600Nm of instant torque, as well as precise controllability and reliability.

A battery that utilises lithium titanate oxide cells designed to survive in the toughest weather conditions, provides a zero local emission, electric-only range of around 80km. For longer adventures, the battery is supported by a 0.8-litre three-cylinder range extender powered by biodiesel.

The unique powertrain is not only lightweight, but also very efficient. Fering states that the Pioneer is expected to deliver up to 17km/L even with the batteries discharged.

And this efficiency means the Pioneer will allow its user to go 'off-grid' and survive expeditions to the remotest areas without needing to worry about refuelling. With long-range tanks fitted, the Fering Pioneer will offer a range of 7,000km. And if such an extreme range isn't needed for the mission, the tanks can be swapped for water to provide fresh supplies on a mission.

Use of an aluminium spaceframe with composite elements keeps the dry kerb weight of the Fering Pioneer at around 1,500kg. However, this has not compromised its carrying ability, with the Pioneer capable of carrying its own weight as a payload.

The Fering Pioneer also has exterior panels made of tough fabric in order to allow it to shrug off damage. The material is also said to be easily replaced and offer better insulation properties than metal skins.

The first prototype Pioneer is already going through a rigorous testing process and being assessed by early customers and organisations. Series production will start in the U.K. during the first half of 2022.