A classic Defender gets an EV transformation, hiding modern power and luxury behind vintage looks and rugged upgrades
7 hours ago
- ECD Automotive transformed this classic Defender into a modern electric off-roader.
- It features a 300 hp EV motor, 84 kWh battery, and selectable AWD or RWD setup.
- Charging from 10 to 80 percent is possible in under an hour, the company claims.
This may look just like any other Land Rover Defender 110 restomod, right? Wrong. While it shares the familiar rugged looks of many restored Defenders, ECD Automotive’s Project Powder Keg has traded its traditional drivetrain for a fully electric setup, meaning its new owner will be able to go off-roading in complete silence.
However, they better not stray too far from civilization, as the special Defender only has a driving range of “up to” 200 miles (about 322 km).
Read: Classic Land Rover Packs 700 Hp And A Manual Gearbox Just To Show Up The Defender
The transformation centers on ECD’s Electric Direct EV drivetrain, which replaces the traditional combustion setup with an 84 kWh battery pack and an electric motor producing 300 horsepower and 368 lb-ft (499 Nm) of torque.
Eager to retain as much of the original model’s off-road credentials, the company allows it to be driven in two- or four-wheel drive. Charging from 10-80 percent is said to take less than an hour.
Subtle Exterior Mods
When viewed from the outside, there’s little to give away the Defender’s new powertrain, other than the notable absence of any exhaust pipes. It has been finished in Bonatti Gray with Shadow Black accents and includes a six-point external roll cage. A new A-bar bumper has then been added to the front, supporting a Warn winch.
A pair of new front-facing LED lights has also been attached to the roof, while found at the rear are additional lights, a steel bumper, and a new spare wheel.
No restomodded Defender would be complete without a revised interior, so that’s exactly what the Project Powder Keg has. It’s been equipped with Recaro Orthoped seats clad Veluto Pelle leather. Also fitted is a new Exmoor Evander steering wheel, custom gauges, billet aluminum accents, and a modern infotainment display.
There’s no word on how much the Land Rover’s overhaul cost, but if you have to ask, you’re probably not in the market for something like this.