The classic Land Rover Defender returns…with an electric motor

No, no, no, no, no, NO! It’s happening, and we can’t believe it is. Are we actually going to give sacred classics like the Land Rover Defender an electric do-over? Seriously? WTF!

Turns out we are. Twisted, an established UK-based Land Rover turner, have taken it upon themselves to commit sacrilege in the most despicable way.

They’re taking the classic Land Rover Defender, fitting it with a transplanted electric powertrain, and slapping a massive $185,000 price tag on it. Now THAT’S Twisted.

Now we’re all about the zero-emissions thing. Heck, we’ll give Greta Thunberg a pat on the back. But six figures for an electri-fied version of a long-standing classic that last went on sale in 1997 is just a kick in the nads.

Oh, but it’s a rare opportunity to drive a classic with an updated, environmentally-friendly powertrain. NOT! If you want an EV, get a Tesla Model 3, get a Hyundai KONA, just STAY AWAY from our beloved classics!

Why, oh why…

Okay, there must be reason to this madness. We are, after all, an unbiased folk. So let’s ask the question: why would anyone fit a classic Defender with an electric motor?

The simple answer is: because large carmakers are struggling to produce original EVs, and giving existing models the electric treatment is proving even more difficult. Oh how we appreciate Elon Musk now, eh? #genius

What’s under the hood?

The installation uses a single motor that drives through the Land Rover’s existing 4WD system. Know what this means? No need for conventional transmission (gasp!), and why would it need one when it can supposedly hit 339 lb-ft of torque at the top end without your interference?

They’re not completely robbing us of some kind of transmission action, though; you’ll be able to choose from…2 options. High-range. And low-range. Oh, take my money now…NOT!

EV or not EV?

Twisted is seriously playing with our minds, sending us all sorts of mixed messages. Earlier on, their US-offshoot offered a 6.2L GM V8 on the classic Land Rover. Sounds to me like the complete opposite of zero-emissions.

And now this? What is it, a desperate attempt to jump on the EV bandwagon? A heartless way of bringing back the Defender?

Say what you will, but I’m not sure I’ll be putting $185,000 towards this heinous act. For that amount, you can get an Aston Martin Vantage sports car, or a 2020 Porsche Taycan. Heck, you can get 3, yes 3, Tesla Model 3s for, and still have $35,000 to spare.

Be smart. Don’t buy into the novelty just because some “kookie” celebrity decided to splash out on it…

If you’re interested in EVs and what we think, check this piece out.