First electrically powered Landrover Defender launches this Summer thanks to Yorkshire firm Twisted

The British motoring icon has been given a sustainable twist with the global launch of the Twisted EV, an exclusive partnership with Dutch electrification specialist Plower will see a fully electric trademarked Twisted Defender available for the first time.

The Twisted EV will offer more than 200 miles of real world driving range, with zero impact on performance either on or off the road.

Available for the entire Twisted range, including the 90, 110 and 130, the EV will deliver 320BHP with 460NM torque, retaining its high and low range of 4WD options.

The vehicle will be sold internationally, while in the US a limited edition ‘California’ series will also be available.

Defender owners can also arrange a conversion of their existing vehicle, which takes around two weeks to complete at the specialist facility in Bristol.

General Manager of the Twisted EV project is Gareth Hamer who has run EV conversion and classic car restoration businesses in the UK.

He said: “I’m really excited to have the ability to bring EV ownership to users of a classic British vehicle. Our solution is completely engineered from the ground up using the highest quality new automotive components. The system is ready to be deployed at scale internationally and is very different from the ‘home-brew’ style of electrification.”

Philip Ploegmakers, founder of Plower, added: “With this partnership we have created a powerful and unique combination which adds the iconic Twisted Land® Rover® Defender® range and the specialist electrification knowledge of Plower to get the best out of both.”

Tom Maxwell, CEO of Twisted’s NA, MENA and EV arms, added: “Having established a reputation as the authority on the Defender, we are excited to announce our latest exciting project, which will add a superb new dimension to a treasured British icon.

“This is not a project we have rushed in to, as it was absolutely crucial to us that it’s done right, without compromising the performance, integrity and symbolism of the original Twisted.

We’re extremely pleased with the result and relishing the opportunity to share it with our customers.”

Twisted is headquartered in Thirsk, North Yorkshire.