Latest news with #LandRoverDefenders
TimesLIVE
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
The Twisted TBug is a classic Baja racer reborn
UK-based tuning specialist Twisted has built its reputation on custom Land Rover Defenders and Suzuki Jimnys, but now it's taking a bold detour with the launch of its latest project: the TBug — a reimagining of the iconic SoCal Baja Bug for the modern era. Each TBug starts life as a carefully chosen air-cooled VW Beetle from the 1960s to 1980s. The chassis is stripped back to bare metal before being restored, rebuilt and strengthened for added rigidity. From there, it's fitted with classic Baja-style bodywork, long-travel suspension and chunky BFGoodrich tyres for enhanced off-road grip. Power comes from a modified original air-cooled engine tuned to produce about 60kW. That may not sound like much, but it's more than enough for some proper old-school fun. 'It's about the connection between driver, machine and terrain,' says Twisted founder Charles Fawcett. 'That sensation of working with the vehicle rather than merely sitting in it. Modern cars have isolated us from the driving experience — the TBug brings it back in its purest form.' Additional upgrades include modern LED lighting for night runs, a beefier braking system for improved stopping power and updated electronics for greater reliability. Inside you'll find a hand-finished cabin designed to blend heritage charm with everyday comfort. As with all Twisted builds, personalisation is central — each TBug is built to individual spec, ensuring no two are exactly alike. The TBug will make its public debut at Twisted's Kensington Mews showroom in London on May 29, during an exclusive preview event.
Associated Press
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
ECD Unleashes Its Most Powerful Defender Yet
KISSIMMEE, Fla., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ECD Auto Design (NASDAQ: ECDA), the global leader in custom Land Rover Defenders, has added its most powerful drivetrain to date: a 700+ horsepower BLUEPRINT V8, now available as an upgrade option across the Defender lineup—and for the first time, also as a performance option for Range Rover Classic builds. This engine isn't a gimmick. It's a direct result of client demand—bringing together decades of LS-based experience, clever integration, and the visceral performance that discerning buyers crave. With the first client Defender build already in production, the 700HP option sets a new benchmark for what's possible in a luxury SUV rooted in heritage but built for today. 'We've worked with LS-based platforms for years, so this evolution felt natural,' said Elliot Humble, Co-Founder and Head of Engineering at ECD. 'The real work was in smart packaging—integrating the supercharger, updating the front-end assembly, adding cooling, and upgrading the drivetrain to handle the torque. The fun part is, it looks like a classic Defender—but it drives like nothing else.' A Power-First, Client-Driven Evolution Rather than reinventing the wheel, ECD built on a trusted foundation—leveraging their extensive experience with LS-based drivetrains to offer an even more thrilling option for clients who want the feel of a classic with the power of a modern supercar. Key upgrades for the 700+ HP configuration include: Every ECD build is handcrafted, and now clients who want a Defender—or a Range Rover Classic—with untamed acceleration and unmistakable sound have a new option that fits seamlessly into the company's bespoke process. Designed for Drivers Who Want More This offering is tailor-made for the client who wants to turn up the volume on an already bold design. Whether it's cruising coastal highways or stealing the spotlight at a private collection, the 700HP Defender or Range Rover Classic adds American muscle to British heritage in a way that feels both timeless and thrillingly modern. 'It's not about chasing numbers,' added Humble. 'It's about giving clients the freedom to dream—and then making those dreams driveable. This engine is just another example of how we listen, evolve, and deliver.' Now Available for New Builds The 700HP BLUEPRINT engine is now available for Defender 90, 110, and 130 commissions—as well as Range Rover Classic builds. With the first vehicle already on the production line, this new option is expected to become a favorite among performance-focused collectors and luxury clients alike. View images of the Blueprint engine being installed About ECD Auto Design ECD, a public company trading under ECDA on the Nasdaq, is a creator of restored luxury vehicles that combines classic beauty with modern performance. Currently, ECD restores Land Rovers Series, Land Rover Series IIA, the Range Rover Classic, Jaguar E-Type, Ford Mustang, Toyota FJ, and highly specialized vehicles from its Boutique Studio. Each vehicle produced by ECD is fully bespoke, a one-off that is designed by the client through an immersive luxury design experience and hand-built from the ground up in 2,200 hours by master-certified Automotive Service Excellence ('ASE') craftsmen. The company was founded in 2013 by three British 'gear heads' whose passion for classic vehicles is the driving force behind exceptionally high standards for quality, custom luxury vehicles. ECD's global headquarters, is a 100,000-square-foot facility located in Kissimmee, Florida that is home to 105 talented and dedicated employees that hold combined 80 ASE and five master level certifications. ECD has an affiliated logistics center in the U.K. where its seven employees work to source and transport 25-year-old work vehicles back to the U.S. for restoration. For more information, visit Media Contact: Kevin Kastner Chief Revenue Officer [email protected] 407-738-1056 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
ECD Unleashes Its Most Powerful Defender Yet
700+ Horsepower. American Muscle. Built by Fla., May 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ECD Auto Design (NASDAQ: ECDA), the global leader in custom Land Rover Defenders, has added its most powerful drivetrain to date: a 700+ horsepower BLUEPRINT V8, now available as an upgrade option across the Defender lineup—and for the first time, also as a performance option for Range Rover Classic builds. This engine isn't a gimmick. It's a direct result of client demand—bringing together decades of LS-based experience, clever integration, and the visceral performance that discerning buyers crave. With the first client Defender build already in production, the 700HP option sets a new benchmark for what's possible in a luxury SUV rooted in heritage but built for today. 'We've worked with LS-based platforms for years, so this evolution felt natural,' said Elliot Humble, Co-Founder and Head of Engineering at ECD. 'The real work was in smart packaging—integrating the supercharger, updating the front-end assembly, adding cooling, and upgrading the drivetrain to handle the torque. The fun part is, it looks like a classic Defender—but it drives like nothing else.' A Power-First, Client-Driven Evolution Rather than reinventing the wheel, ECD built on a trusted foundation—leveraging their extensive experience with LS-based drivetrains to offer an even more thrilling option for clients who want the feel of a classic with the power of a modern supercar. Key upgrades for the 700+ HP configuration include: New front-end rotating assembly to house the integrated supercharger Enhanced cooling systems to manage added thermal load Upgraded transmission, transfer case, and differentials to handle the increased torque Refined ECU tuning and throttle mapping to maintain smooth drivability Every ECD build is handcrafted, and now clients who want a Defender—or a Range Rover Classic—with untamed acceleration and unmistakable sound have a new option that fits seamlessly into the company's bespoke process. Designed for Drivers Who Want More This offering is tailor-made for the client who wants to turn up the volume on an already bold design. Whether it's cruising coastal highways or stealing the spotlight at a private collection, the 700HP Defender or Range Rover Classic adds American muscle to British heritage in a way that feels both timeless and thrillingly modern. 'It's not about chasing numbers,' added Humble. 'It's about giving clients the freedom to dream—and then making those dreams driveable. This engine is just another example of how we listen, evolve, and deliver.' Now Available for New Builds The 700HP BLUEPRINT engine is now available for Defender 90, 110, and 130 commissions—as well as Range Rover Classic builds. With the first vehicle already on the production line, this new option is expected to become a favorite among performance-focused collectors and luxury clients alike. View images of the Blueprint engine being installed About ECD Auto DesignECD, a public company trading under ECDA on the Nasdaq, is a creator of restored luxury vehicles that combines classic beauty with modern performance. Currently, ECD restores Land Rovers Series, Land Rover Series IIA, the Range Rover Classic, Jaguar E-Type, Ford Mustang, Toyota FJ, and highly specialized vehicles from its Boutique Studio. Each vehicle produced by ECD is fully bespoke, a one-off that is designed by the client through an immersive luxury design experience and hand-built from the ground up in 2,200 hours by master-certified Automotive Service Excellence ('ASE') craftsmen. The company was founded in 2013 by three British 'gear heads' whose passion for classic vehicles is the driving force behind exceptionally high standards for quality, custom luxury vehicles. ECD's global headquarters, is a 100,000-square-foot facility located in Kissimmee, Florida that is home to 105 talented and dedicated employees that hold combined 80 ASE and five master level certifications. ECD has an affiliated logistics center in the U.K. where its seven employees work to source and transport 25-year-old work vehicles back to the U.S. for restoration. For more information, visit Media Contact: Kevin KastnerChief Revenue Officerkastnerk@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
News.com.au
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- News.com.au
‘Cringe': Bed Judd roasted over luxury SUV clip
Influencer and AFL WAG Rebecca Judd has been roasted over her promotional material for a luxury car dealership. Judd, 42, is a partner of Melbourne City Land Rover and recently shared a video promoting the Defender 110 – touted as 'the fastest and most powerful Defender ever' – in a Sedona Red edition. In the clip, she wears an outfit from her new clothing collection with Aussie fashion label Sabo's Zãco. The crop top has a price tag of $180, the pants retail for $270 and the overshirt costs $280. Judd, who is married to former AFL player Chris Judd, is also carrying a Fendi bag in the clip. 'What have you got for me,' she asks, before the salesman named Ben introduces her to the car. He then explains it was named after the Arizona mountains. She comments that warm tones are 'so in right now', adding it is 'very on trend' and 'matches my outfit too'. Land Rover Defenders retail between $92,600 to $317,000 for 2025 models, dependent on SUV body types. Meanwhile, the 2025 Range Rover Sport PHEV starts at $198,097. 'And why do you think the Defenders are selling so well at the moment?' the Aussie model asks. 'They're so liveable, the most common bit of feedback we get is people are surprised at actually just how refined it is,' the salesman replies. Judd was introduced to two more luxury cars, before she ultimately drives away in a black Santorini plug-in hybrid Defender. 'This is my first Range Rover Sport, for a long time. I mean, I used to drive one back in the day but I think it's been about eight years,' she says. At the end of the promo clip, Judd quips that it's the 'luxury details that make it' before driving away in her shiny black ride. It is unclear whether the mother-of-four got to keep the car. Many social media users had a huge reaction to the social media video, calling it 'cringe' and likening it to a parody sketch. 'Didn't know Chris Judd sold cars too,' one joked. Another added: 'Ehhhh it's like a parody sketch but fair dinkum.' 'Selling so well? Come on,' another questioned. 'Most unreliable vehicles in history. Buy a Macan,' another weighed in. One social media user said: ''I don't know how you can get any more cringe. Your self importance reeks out of you. Ewww.' But others chose to focus on the positives, complimenting Judd on her outfit instead. 'That outfit,' one person commented, coupled with a fire emoji. Another social media user asked: 'What's the outfit??' 'Very chic,' another posted. One said they loved the video, but couldn't give up their AMG.
Yahoo
22-03-2025
- Yahoo
Masked offenders attempt to steal Land Rover in Oxfordshire village
A gang of "masked offenders" have attempted to steal a Land Rover in a village near Chipping Norton, police have said. The incident occurred at about midnight on Wednesday, March 19, in which a multiple masked people attempted to steal the vehicle in Church Enstone. Thames Valley Police warned that Land Rover Defenders are at increasing risk of theft due to its growing popularity for parts. READ MORE: Armed police and helicopter deployed for Didcot altercation The force issued crime prevention tips, and said by following them, "you will significantly reduce the risk of your beloved Land Rover Defender being stolen or stripped for parts." Unlock unlimited local news subscribe today and save 40 per cent off an annual subscription. Enjoy access to our ad-free mobile and tablet app, as well as the digital edition of the paper. Don't miss out – subscribe now! 🗞️👇 — Oxford Mail (@TheOxfordMail) March 18, 2025 The tips included installing an electronic immobiliser which disables the engine's ability to start without a proper key, a heavy-duty steering lock, and a hidden GPS tracking system. Gear lock, transmission locks, wheel clamps and tire locks are additional options to prevent the vehicle being driven by thieves. READ MORE: Closure order for two Banbury properties after 'drug misuse' A visible, audible car alarm system is a good deterrent and can be enabled to send alerts to your phone, and a hidden kill switch can add another layer of security. More day-to-day prevention measures include securing the doors and windows, parking strategically in a secure, well-lit area, and by using security stickers indicating that the car is protected. Anyone with information about the attempted Land Rover theft in Church Enstone should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 43250135878.
