Summary
– Bedeo has created an all-electric 2005 Land Rover Defender 110 restomod prototype
– The performance of the electric Defender matches the original donor vehicle
– The interior retains the original Defender’s dashboard and driving position
– The electric powertrain does not compromise passenger space but does decrease ground clearance
– Bedeo installed a 75 kWh battery that can be charged using AC or DC chargers
Article
Bedeo, a company specializing in electric vehicle conversions, has created an all-electric 2005 Land Rover Defender 110 prototype. The vehicle retains the performance of the original Defender, with a zero to 60 mph time of 10 seconds and a top speed of 80 mph. However, the range of the electric version is limited to 153 miles. Despite the conversion to an electric powertrain, the Defender’s interior remains largely unchanged, with only minor modifications such as a digital screen in the rearview mirror displaying energy use and remaining range.
The electric powertrain in the Defender includes a 75 kWh battery that can be charged with a 22 kW AC charger or up to a 50 kW DC charger. Bedeo chose the Defender as a platform for their restomod EV projects due to the model’s increasing value and the high number of Defenders still on the road. The electric motors, housed within the 18-inch wheels, each produce 82 hp and 479 ft lbs of torque. Despite the addition of electric components, the prototype is claimed to weigh approximately the same as a stock diesel-powered Defender.
In terms of driving experience, the electric powertrain does not compromise the passenger space inside the cabin, although there is a slight decrease in ground clearance due to the configuration of the electric components. The vehicle features a push-button panel on the center console for Drive, Reverse, Park, and Eco mode, which adjusts the level of regenerative braking. The prototype also features all-terrain tires and a design dating back to 1948, which may increase road noise at higher speeds but maintains the iconic appearance of the Defender.
The decision to convert a classic vehicle like the Land Rover Defender to electric power showcases Bedeo’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in the automotive industry. By preserving the original design and performance characteristics of the Defender while adding an electric powertrain, Bedeo offers a modern and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional combustion engine vehicles. The prototype’s ability to match the performance of the original Defender while reducing emissions and operating costs highlights the potential for electric vehicle conversions to transform the classic car market. With advancements in electric vehicle technology and increasing demand for sustainable transportation options, projects like Bedeo’s all-electric Defender restomod represent a glimpse into the future of automotive customization and conservation.
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