E.C.D. Automotive and Its Tesla-Swapped Land Rover Defenders
Scott Wallace discusses Tesla-swaps, and what the future holds for E.C.D. Automotive Design in an Electric Vehicle Forums exclusive interview.
Earlier this month, Kissimmee, Florida-based outfit E.C.D. Automotive Design introduced two Tesla-swapped Land Rover Defenders. With their 450 HP Tesla powertrains, both Project Britton and Project Morpheus EVs offer impressive performance. According to the Floridian company, the electric Defenders can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5 seconds. Furthermore, these one-of-a-kind electric restomods can also offer 220 miles of range with just 5 hours of charge.
Both offerings get E.C.D. Air Ride suspension and come jam-packed with premium features. Safe to say, these retro-futuristic creations caught our attention. So, I was pretty excited to have the opportunity to interact with the Co-Founder of E.C.D. Automotive Design, Scott Wallace. In addition to discussing the new electric offerings, Wallace also shared details regarding E.C.D. Automotive’s future.
- What inspired Project Britton and Project Morpheus?
At E.C.D., our motto is to evolve not to exist. We aren’t satisfied with the status quo and are consistently pushing the envelope to find new ways to do what has never been done before. Having an electric option is just one of many drivetrain solutions on our extensive menu that enable our clients to truly achieve the personalized vehicle of their dreams.
- Why did you choose the Tesla powertrain?
There was a demand from our clients for this drivetrain option and at E.C.D. we never back down from a challenge. Together with our U.K. partners, Electric Classic Cars, we were able to evolve the electric integration to our classic cars and deliver a truly one-of-a-kind experience for classic car fanatics and Defender enthusiasts alike.
These Tesla-Swapped Land Rover Defenders also use parts from E.C.D. Automotive’s electric partner – Electric Classic Cars (ECC).
- What kind of modification had to be done to accommodate the Tesla Drive unit and battery packs?
To fit the batteries in the truck, the pack is split in two at a 60:40 ratio. The front 60kWh pack resides in the engine bay, and the rear 40kWh one sits above the rear axle.
- What does the future hold for E.C.D. Automotive Design and Project Britton and Project Morpheus?
Since adding the Tesla engine option to the lineup of drivetrain solutions, E.C.D. has seen outstanding demand for the custom electric builds with several already on order. To match this growth, E.C.D. is moving its headquarters to a 100,000-square foot facility with two production lines for a more efficient build process – ultimately scaling from 60 one-of-one builds a year to 100 – while preserving the high-quality craftsmanship that is characteristic of E.C.D.’s luxury brand. The facility will include an off-road test track and an attached Driver’s Club for maintenance needs and exclusive client events.
- Are you considering tweaking the bodywork to make it more aerodynamic to achieve better efficiency?
No, E.C.D. and our clients share a great love for the original look of a vintage Defender. However, we seek to constantly evolve and improve our vehicle design in other ways. E.C.D. retained the services of racecar engineer and consultant Cody Ragone to refine the drivability and overall performance of our restored classic cars.