IBEX Owners Gather in Rotherham
You know you’re in for a good day when you roll up to a factory car park and see thirteen very different takes on the same theme. That was the scene at IBEX Automotive’s Rotherham HQ, where owners, enthusiasts, and a few curious onlookers gathered for a cracking morning of tea, talk, and, rather unexpectedly, feats of strength.
For those who might not be familiar, IBEX is one of those brilliant British success stories. Born out of the desire to build something stronger, tougher, and more versatile than the mainstream 4x4s, the IBEX has been quietly carving its own path for decades. Think Land Rover DNA but with a fresh sheet of paper – a sturdy ladder chassis with a body formed out of laser-cut steel plate and the folded aluminium body panels are riveted and bonded to the framework, making them easy to replace if pranged. A “build it your way” ethos, and a focus on serious off-road performance. It’s the kind of vehicle that appeals to farmers, explorers, competition drivers, and, increasingly, those who just want a go-anywhere base for their next camper conversion.
That mix was plain to see in Rotherham. Lined up were early models that showed the original thinking behind the brand, competition-spec monsters bristling with hardware, and a couple of camper vans that looked ready to tackle Iceland or the Sahara. Each owner had their own story about why they chose an IBEX and how they’d personalised it. What united them all was a real sense of pride – these weren’t just vehicles, they were expressions of individuality.
The atmosphere was as warm as the tea and coffee being poured by David, IBEX’s owner, and his team. Hospitality came in the form of brews and biscuits, and conversations flowed easily – part technical, part travel tales, and part “where’s the next adventure?” It was clear that IBEX ownership isn’t just about having a vehicle; it’s about joining a family.
One of the more memorable highlights was the strongman competition. Not the usual tyre-flipping or log-lifting, but the uniquely IBEX challenge of dragging a short wheelbase model around 20 yards using a recovery rope. A proper test of brute strength, grip, and, for some, stubbornness. Let’s just say it separated the tea drinkers from the protein-shake crowd.
For me, the day wasn’t just about the vehicles, though it was impossible not to admire the craftsmanship and individuality of each one, but about the people. I spent the morning chatting with proud owners, curious potential buyers, and even a few Mud Life readers who’d dropped by to soak up the atmosphere. It reinforced the idea that while IBEX may be a small player in automotive terms, it has built something much bigger: a community of enthusiasts who believe in the brand and the lifestyle it represents.
David himself took time to chat about what IBEX can do – the sheer variety of builds, from hardcore off-roaders to long-distance campers, is impressive. He hinted at ideas for the future, though in true engineering fashion, nothing is final until it’s built, tested, and used in anger. Still, it was enough to make you curious about what’s next from this small but mighty company.
As the gathering wrapped up, there was a sense that this wasn’t just a one-off event, but part of something ongoing, a tradition in the making. IBEX owners aren’t just drivers; they’re ambassadors, adventurers, and, in some cases, strongmen.
In short, it was a proper good morning out. Vehicles admired, biscuits dunked, muscles tested, and friendships forged. And isn’t that exactly what this scene is all about?
For more details, check out their website - IbexVehicles.com