For Land Rover enthusiasts, the Defender’s diesel rumble or V-8 growl is cherished, synonymous with unbridled exploration across serene and unforgiving landscapes. Now, imagine that legacy combined with the silent power of electric drive—a fusion of the past and future that elevates the classic Defender to new heights.
In a world where progress often comes at the cost of nostalgia, an innovative electric conversion system melds the revered Defender with cutting-edge electric technology, heralding an unexpected alliance. While some purists may bristle at the thought of transplanting an electric powertrain into the mud-slinging Defender, it presents an enticing opportunity for the iconic vehicle’s evolution.
Beneath the Hood: A Silent Revolution
The team at Fellten, meaning Lightning in Welsh, composed of brilliant minds and expert craftsmen, takes center stage in this journey. Based in Bristol, Fellten’s reputation for crafting exceptional conversion systems extends worldwide. Now, they’ve set their sights on the mighty Landy.
Fellten’s system merges a Tesla Model 3 rear drive unit with its universal battery pack, boasting an impressive 55kWh capacity. The battery pack, named the ‘UBP55E,’ is designed to fit various engine bays, including the Defender’s. Available through Legacy EV, this pack can be purchased individually or as part of a conversion systems bundle.
The Tesla drive unit replaces the entire internal combustion drivetrain, resulting in a more compact engineering system than coupling a small electric motor to the original transmission. This setup maintains the Defender’s original mass and weight balance, crucial for its handling off-road and while towing.
The electric motor’s 100% torque delivery from standstill to maximum speed eliminates the need for a transfer case, aligning with the Defender’s classic layout.
One-Pedal Driving and Effortless Power
Driving the Fellten electric Defender offers a unique yet familiar experience. The absence of traditional growls is replaced by a gentle electronic hum, introducing a novel yet recognizable drive. The regenerative braking system mirrors the engine braking of its diesel predecessor, making one-pedal driving second nature.
The Defender reaches speeds of up to 90 mph with a 0-60 time of 6.5 seconds. Its electric motor’s instant 300 lb-ft of torque (upgradable to 600Nm) and 150 hp (potentially pushed to 300hp) effortlessly outperform a new supercharged V-8 Defender.
In rugged terrains, the Fellten 90 introduces modes akin to the Terrain Response system, including a specialized Crawl mode. This allows for nuanced control when climbing over rocks and obstacles.
Electric Elegance with Financial Prudence
Investing in this electric transformation requires a $62,000 commitment (fully installed and tested). While this upfront cost may seem significant, the long-term economic benefits are compelling, especially considering lower running costs—only $5.50 to charge from 0 to 100% compared to $36 for the same distance in a diesel 90.
Furthermore, the reduced mechanical components result in significantly lower maintenance costs. This financial prudence is increasingly appealing as we gravitate toward zero-emission mandates.
Embracing a New Frontier: The Electric Evolution of the Defender
The Fellten electric Defender isn’t just a transformation; it’s an odyssey bridging eras, uniting cherished heritage with forward-thinking innovation. By fusing the classic with the modern, the Defender purrs quietly into the future, becoming an icon of tomorrow while remaining ever-so-tantalizingly British.
SPECS
Conversion: Fellten (production will be performed by a network of specialists)
Time to build: Installation by approved specialists will be five daysMotor Drive: Tesla Model 3 rear drive unit
Power: Up to 220kW (300hp) – currently at 150hp
Torque: Up to 600Nm (442lb-ft) – currently at 400Nm (300lb-ft)
Motor mounts: Custom onto original Land Rover mounts
Control Software: Fellten proprietary software
Battery: Fellten 55kWh, 350-volt, IP67-certified steel and carbon fiber pack – optional 55kWh ‘seat-box’ pack.
Cooling: Integrated aluminum plates with glycol-based coolant.
Rapid charging rate (CCS2): 70kW
Range: +100 miles with 55kWh pack, +220 with 110kWh pack
Regen type: Single-mode regenerative braking system
Pricing: Complete systems retail from $62.000 fully installed by independent specialists – however the UBP55E packs are also available independently.
Warranty: 3-year
Information: www.Fellten.com
