Florida-based Defender restoration specialist E.C.D. Automotive Design has unveiled its latest project: an SUV retrofitted with a new body and powertrain to make an appealing beach cruiser. Prices start from U.S. $249,995, and the company reckons it can build up to 18 units per year.
The whole process starts with a complete body restoration. The customers can specify any vivid colors and graphics they like and opt for exclusive rugged body kit parts, such as a brush guard and side sill guards. The spare wheel moves to the hood as well, and the rear end gets a Yakina bed organizer suitable for various kinds of cargo.
What used to be a fixed roof gets replaced with roll bars you can mount even more equipment and sports gear on. The windshield can be flipped down forward along with the frame. The interior has a 2+2+4 seat layout, with Recaro seats at the front and four paratrooper seats in the trunk area. A custom center console and a vintage-themed gauge cluster round things off with considerable style.
The only thing E.C.D. has revealed about the chassis and suspension is that the SUV rides on 16-inch wheels finished to match the body and shod in BFGoodrich tires. What we do know is that the stock engine gets thrown away and a 6.2-liter GM V8 slots in its place to drive all four wheels with 460 PS (454 hp / 338 kW). The transmission is eight-speed automatic, and you can opt for diff locks if you actually plan on driving it on rough terrain.
Other features mentioned include a Borla exhaust, a high-end audio system with removable speakers, and an on-board air compressor equally fit for pumping up tires and beach toys.