This Land Rover Defender Restomod Hides Electric Innovation in Its Wheels

A classic Land Rover Defender may seem like the ultimate adventure vehicle—until you actually try driving one. Originally engineered for military use, its ergonomics are unforgiving, and its clunky gas and diesel engines tend to generate more noise and smoke than actual momentum. So it’s no surprise that more and more companies are stepping in to reimagine these rugged icons into something far more refined and enjoyable. Even Jaguar Land Rover has joined the transformation movement.

The latest reimagined Defender comes courtesy of a collaboration between Monarch Defender—a well-known name in the restomod world—and EV retrofit specialist Bedeo. As you might’ve guessed, this Defender ditches its fossil-fueled roots in favor of a fully electric setup, featuring in-wheel motors that deliver significantly more power—and likely more range—than anything that ever rolled out of the Solihull factory.

Commercial EV Builder Takes a Detour Into Something More Exciting

Bedeo is best known for its work in the commercial EV sector, where it specializes in electrifying trucks and vans. Since 2019, the company has been supplying OE-level electric drivetrains for PSA (that’s Peugeot and Citroën, before the Stellantis merger), powering a range of light commercial vehicles. But Bedeo’s ambitions go beyond utility. Leveraging its in-wheel motor technology, the company has begun electrifying more iconic rides—including legendary classics like the Land Rover Defender.

To bring the vintage Defender into the electric age, Bedeo installs a 75-kWh battery pack neatly beneath the floor. Power comes from four in-wheel electric motors producing a combined 483 horsepower. Because each motor operates independently, the system allows for precise control of torque at each wheel—translating into superior traction and off-road capability compared to traditional combustion engines and transfer case-based 4×4 setups. It’s the same approach Mercedes-Benz chose for its electric G-Class, and for good reason.

The battery pack provides this beast with up to 153 miles of range. It can recharge from 0 to 100% in about five hours using a Level 2 charger, or reach 80% in just 45 minutes on a 50 kW Level 3 fast charger. While that range isn’t massive, it’s likely plenty for any Defender excursion—after all, who wants to spend endless hours in one without taking a break?

Monarch Crafts Defender Restomods Fit for Royalty

Thanks to Monarch Defender, this Defender is far more refined than most. Based in Iowa, Monarch specializes in building, restoring, and customizing classic Land Rovers. While their usual go-to powerplant is a GM LS3 V8 engine (like the one pictured above), this electric version offers a cleaner, quieter, and more eco-friendly ride—delivering an entirely new kind of off-road experience.

Monarch’s nearly $300,000 restomods carry names like The Old Money and Nessie. These builds often feature suspension lifts equipped with Fox shocks, reinforced axles (except on the axle-less EV models), larger brakes, and, perhaps most importantly, upgraded, luxurious interiors.

Upgraded with modern heated and ventilated seats, power windows, leather upholstery, teak flooring, and other creature comforts absent from the original factory Defender, this restomod transforms the cabin into a far more comfortable and inviting space.

As a brand deeply rooted in heritage, design, and craftsmanship, we’ve always believed the Defender should evolve with intention. Our goal has never been merely to restore but to elevate the Defender. Partnering with Bedeo enables us to take a meaningful step toward electrification—one that stays true to our values and meets our customers’ growing demand for sustainability, all while preserving the iconic character that defines these vehicles.

– Akif Keskin of Monarch Defender

Monarch Defender announced that it will begin accepting orders in July, offering full customization options along with “global support” for its customers. While pricing details have yet to be revealed, it’s safe to assume that these pioneering Defenders equipped with in-wheel motors won’t come cheap.