Twisted Automotive has been restoring and modding classical Land Rover Defenders for nearly two decades now, its projects ranging from simple 2.2L diesel-based restorations to the glorious Corvette-swapped, 659HP NA-V8 (watch the video if you missed our news article). Now, it unveils something different: a Defender EV.
Customers can choose between two specs: the more affordable one produces 217 hp (162 kW) and 380 Nm (284 lb-ft) of torque, whereas the more performance-oriented one benefits from 324 hp (242 kW) and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft). The AWD system stays unchanged, and the Defender EV looks identical to its fossil fuel-powered siblings unless the customer pays for an exterior/cabin overhaul.
In contrast to most similar projects, the electric SUV by Twisted doesn’t just wind up with a Tesla or similar engine under the hood. Instead, it uses a proprietary powertrain design created by Netherlands-based company Plower. A controller module and a few battery units occupy the engine bay now, and more batteries still reside in the former fuel tank area and under the side sills.
The tuner works with all popular Defender modifications – 90, 110 and 130 are all supported – but the traction battery size will depend on the body size chosen. The smallest SUV will have to make do with 60 kilowatt-hours of power, while the larger duo will get 84 kWh. Driving range should amount to approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles) in both cases.
If you happen to have a used Defender, Twisted can electrify it, too, and the work should only take a couple of weeks. The car body and chassis do not receive any permanent modifications except for two new mount points.
You can order a finished Defender EV (includes the base vehicle and the electrification job) starting from just £83,940. Orders are being processed in Great Britain and the USA.