Heavy Duty, Even as an EV

All-Aluminum PlatformWith the adoption of an all-aluminum platform and the development of hybrid models, Land Rover is advancing towards mass production of all-terrain, all-weather vehicles with low environmental impact. The "Electric Defender," announced this time, is a research vehicle as part of these efforts.

During the trials, it reportedly pulled a 12-ton, four-carriage train carrying 60 passengers, effortlessly ascending and descending a 6-degree slope.

The Eden Project in Cornwall, UK, is a tourist attraction featuring biodomes that artificially replicate tropical and temperate climates, housing diverse plant life.

The grounds of the Eden Project are hilly, requiring visitors to navigate between the upper parking lot and the entrance below. The Electric Defender is expected to undertake the role of transporting visitors by pulling a train between these points.





This Electric Defender utilizes a lithium-ion battery offering a range of 50 miles (approx. 80 km), with an additional 12.5 miles (approx. 20 km) of capacity in reserve, enabling 8 hours of low-speed off-road driving.

The regenerative braking system is integrated into Land Rover's signature "Hill Descent Assist." The vehicle can operate from opening to closing time without needing a recharge. A full recharge takes 10 hours, or 4 hours with rapid charging. The daily electricity cost is a mere £2 (approx. ¥300).

It features a 4WD drivetrain with Terrain Response system adapted for EV use. The top speed is 70 mph (approx. 112 km/h).

According to Land Rover, the task of repeatedly ascending and descending the same route is highly suitable for collecting practical data for future EV development.