Electric conversions are nothing new, but when it comes to a Tesla-powered take on a classic Defender, that’s enough to get anyone’s attention. Matt Watson from Carwow puts two electric Defenders through their paces to test if they are worth their six-figure price tags.
This Defender Duo has been converted by installing the electric motor beneath the center of the car. Battery packs taken from a Tesla Model S 100D are mounted under the hood as well as in the trunk. The weight distribution is the same as the gas-powered Defender, thanks to these batteries.
There are header tanks, an electric power steering pump, and an electric brake vacuum pump beneath the hood, all of which require less maintenance than the equivalent components in a gasoline-powered 4×4.
The 2010 Spectre Defender and the ‘Doris’ Defender, which is based on a 1996 Defender, are two unique electric cars with the same power output. They both produce 450HP and 450Nm of torque.
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The Spectre mimics the fabled Defender from James Bond carries extras like a tow winch, bullbar, wider wheel arches, and roll cage. Its modern interior features leather sport seats and space for five passengers. There’s even greater room at the front because there are no shift sticks, and the gears are changed with a simple knob. With a price tag of £150000 ($208,000), it weighs a hefty 2600 Kg (5732 lb) and has a range of 150 miles (240 km).
The Doris Defender bears a minimalistic retro look with reformed headlights, reshaped aluminum bumpers, and callbacks to the series two Land Rover. It can be recharged by both AC and DC chargers, has replaced its old air intake. With no gearshifts and plenty of room for five people, the interior is likewise kept simple.
The 2000kg (4410 lb) Doris is worth £125000 ($174,000) and has a range of 200 miles (320 km). On tarmac, it was able to hit 0-60 mph in 3.95-second, and even uphill, it clocked a 4.37-second 0-60 mph time.
Watson says that off-roading is considerably simpler and less stressful with these electric Defenders. They feel in control over ditches and rocks without needing to be on the brakes to slow them down. Because the Tesla electric system is waterproof, these Defenders can go underwater without trouble too. And yet, we can’t help but feel there’ll be hordes crying out at just sacrilegious this conversion is.