What Makes the ECD Electric Defender 110 Stand Out from Other Restomods?
At first glance, you might mistake ECD Automotive’s Project Powder Keg for just another beautifully restored Land Rover Defender 110. But look closer—or rather, listen closer. There’s no signature diesel rumble, no exhaust pipes peeking out from under the rear bumper. Instead, this Defender glides in near silence, thanks to a full electric conversion that’s anything but ordinary.
ECD Automotive, a Florida-based specialist in high-end Defender builds, has swapped out the classic drivetrain for a thoroughly modern electric setup. The heart of this transformation is an 84 kWh battery pack paired with a 300-horsepower electric motor. That’s enough to deliver 368 lb-ft of torque—plenty to get you up a muddy trail or through city traffic without breaking a sweat.
How Does the Electric Defender Perform Off-Road and On the Road?
Performance is where this restomod really shines. With selectable all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, the electric Defender keeps its off-road DNA intact. ECD’s engineers were careful not to sacrifice capability for novelty. The instant torque from the electric motor means you get power right when you need it, whether you’re crawling over rocks or merging onto the highway.
Range, of course, is the elephant in the room for any EV conversion. ECD claims up to 200 miles (about 322 km) on a full charge. That’s respectable for a classic off-roader with the aerodynamics of a brick, but it does mean you’ll want to plan your longer adventures with charging stops in mind. The good news? Fast charging from 10 to 80 percent reportedly takes less than an hour, so a lunch break could get you back on the road with minimal fuss.
What Subtle Design Changes Set This Defender Apart?
ECD’s approach to design is all about subtlety. The exterior keeps the Defender’s iconic boxy silhouette, finished in Bonatti Gray with Shadow Black accents. There’s a six-point external roll cage for safety, a new A-bar bumper up front with a Warn winch, and a set of modern LED lights on the roof and rear. No flashy EV badges or wild color schemes—just a clean, purposeful look that respects the original’s rugged charm.
Inside, though, it’s a different story. The cabin gets a serious upgrade with Recaro Orthoped seats wrapped in Veluto Pelle leather, a new Exmoor Evander steering wheel, custom gauges, billet aluminum accents, and a slick modern infotainment display. It’s a blend of old-school toughness and contemporary comfort that makes you want to linger behind the wheel.
Is the Electric Defender Practical for Everyday Use?
Let’s be honest: a 200-mile range isn’t going to win any cross-country records, but for most people, it’s more than enough for weekend adventures or daily driving. The fast-charging capability helps, and the ability to switch between two- and four-wheel drive adds flexibility for different driving conditions.
Maintenance is another plus. Electric drivetrains have fewer moving parts than traditional engines, which means less to go wrong and fewer trips to the mechanic. For owners who love the Defender’s style but dread its old-school quirks, this modern twist could be the best of both worlds.
How Does This Build Compare to Other High-End Defender Restomods?
The restomod scene is packed with wild builds—some chase horsepower, others focus on luxury. ECD’s electric Defender carves out a unique niche. It’s not the most powerful (some V8 conversions boast 700 hp or more), but it’s arguably the most forward-thinking. The blend of classic looks, modern tech, and real off-road ability is rare.
Pricing hasn’t been disclosed, but let’s face it: if you have to ask, this probably isn’t your next daily driver. These builds are bespoke, tailored to individual tastes, and priced accordingly. Think of it as a rolling piece of art that just happens to be emissions-free.
What’s the Real-World Impact of Electric Restomods Like This?
Beyond the wow factor, electric restomods like ECD’s Defender are changing the way enthusiasts think about classic cars. According to a 2023 report from the International Energy Agency, electric vehicle adoption continues to surge globally, with over 14 million new EVs sold last year alone. As cities tighten emissions rules and more drivers seek sustainable options, conversions like this offer a way to keep beloved classics on the road without the environmental baggage.
There’s also a growing community of owners who value both heritage and innovation. For them, the electric Defender isn’t just a novelty—it’s a statement about what the future of classic motoring could look like.
The big takeaway? Reinventing a classic like the Defender isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.