British engineering firm BEDEO has launched an EV Land Rover Defender 110 conversion that’s powered by four in-wheel motors. The model is the first in a series of Reborn Electric: Icons vehicles the company plans to offer.
EV-converted classics are nothing new, but BEDEO’s in-wheel motor philosophy provides several advantages compared with more conventional electric conversions.
The first benefit is lightness. BEDEO says its EV powertrain weighs more or less the same as the Defender’s original turbodiesel driveline, while still providing four-wheel drive but without the need for cumbersome driveshafts and transfer boxes.
BEDEO’s in-wheel motor philosophy provides several advantages compared with more conventional electric conversions
Higher power and torque figures, and superior refinement, are further benefits. With BEDEO’s conversion, the Defender produces 320bhp and an incredible 1916lb ft – great for towing and off-roading.
Range is typically the big drawback of EV conversions, and, compared with a traditional diesel engine, BEDEO’s Defender is no different, with a WLTP rating of 153 miles. The car is recharged via a 22kW on-board charger, and 50kW fast charging is also available. With the standard charger it takes five hours to reach 100 percent, while the optional fast charger fills up the batteries in 90 minutes.
BEDEO has been developing in-wheel motor powertrains since 2009, and its motors are said to have clocked up 60 million kilometres across Europe since then. Before entering the classic car market, BEDEO sold electrified vans to the likes of DHL, Ocado, TNT and FedEx.
“Through our Reborn Electric: Icons program, we are committed to maintaining the original car’s kerbweight, charm and driving dynamics, while ensuring easy maintenance and delivering the benefits of electrification,” explained BEDEO CEO Osman Boyner. “For the Defender, and other models to come, this means zero tailpipe emissions, zero noise and the preservation of the nostalgic, classic driving experience we all cherish, now brought into the 21st century without sacrificing its essence or adding unnecessary, bulky weight.”
BEDEO has yet to officially confirm pricing.
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