The electric conversion of the classic Defender uses in-wheel motors from Protean.
U.K.-based Bedeo's electric Defender uses in-wheel motors, which Bedeo has packaged as a retrofit kit that could potentially be used on any classic car.
Bedeo specializes in adding electric powertrains to light commercial vehicles, but the company plans to expand into classic cars through a new Reborn Electric: Icons program. The Defender is just the first conversion., which was acquired in 2019 by Swedish EV startup NEVS and sold to Bedeo in 2021 after NEVS ran into cash troubles. Chinese automaker Dongfeng has previously used Protean motors for its Fengshen E70 sedan.
Bedeo claims it's committed to matching the original curb weight and driving dynamics with each of these builds, achieved in part through weight savings brought about by the use in-wheel motors. In addition to ditching the internal-combustion engine and its associated hardware, in-wheel motors also eliminates the need for things like a transmission and driveshafts.
There are downsides to the technology, though. In-wheel motors face direct exposure to road debris, saltwater, and various fluids, along with vibrations and shocks, all of which can reduce their lifespan.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
New Land Rover Defender EV gains in-wheel motors and 2000lb ftBritish firm Bedeo launches classic-oriented conversion project with a bespoke Defender 130
Read more »
Twin-turbo V8 Land Rover Defender OCTA will be the ‘toughest’ yetCAR magazine UK reveals details of the flagship Land Rover Defender OCTA
Read more »
Extreme Land Rover Defender Octa due this year with snarling V8New brand for flagship Defenders kicks off with a hardcore super-4x4 that’s tipped to nudge £200,000
Read more »
2025 Land Rover Defender OCTA Will Be The Most Powerful Ever Thanks To BMW V8The new flagship Defender will serve as a rival to trucks like the Mercedes-AMG G63 and Ford Bronco Raptor
Read more »
New Chery iCar V23 Looks Like The Electric Defender That Land Rover Won’t Make (Yet)The second model from Chery's new iCar brand is a rugged-looking SUV with familiar styling cues developed with the help of Xiaomi's Zhimi Technology
Read more »
Off-Road Showdown: Lexus GX550 vs Land Rover Defender vs Mercedes-Benz G550We compare the off-road capabilities and luxury features of the Lexus GX550, Land Rover Defender, and Mercedes-Benz G550 in a high-end off-road adventure.
Read more »