Electric Defender generates interest in Coventry auto specialist

A COVENTRY-based automotive specialist is set for a boost after basking in the reflected glory of Jaguar Land Rover’s appearance at the Geneva Motor Show.

RDM Group worked with CAD engineers from the thriving car manufacturer to develop and build seven Electric Defender research vehicles.

RDM helped to transform initial concept designs into an all-terrain vehicle that produces zero emissions.

The work included providing mechanical installation solutions, main battery installation development and data logging technology so vehicle information could be accessed remotely via GSM.

Les Brighouse, Principal Design Engineer at RDM, said: “We have a long-standing relationship with Jaguar Land Rover and were approached by the project leader to see if we would be interested in converting the vehicles.

“It was a concept that really excited us and suited our automotive expertise, with a lot of emphasis on technical content and being able to meet stringent delivery deadlines.”

The project saw the regular diesel engine from the Defender substituted for a 70kw electric motor capable of 243lb-ft of torque. This is powered by a 300-volt lithium-ion battery.

“Other solutions we’ve provided include modifications to the vehicle wiring harness, installation design of diesel fired heater systems, new instrument pack dedicated to new electrical displays and a specific watchdog safety control ECU,” added Mr Brighouse.

The Land Rover Electric Defender is unique in that it retains the original proven 4×4 drivetrain. Regenerative braking recharges the battery on downhill off-road sections so the vehicle is capable of running up to eight hours off-road on a single charge.

It said interest from the global motoring media at Geneva was positive, with one of the demonstration vehicles displayed on Jaguar Land Rover’s main exhibition stand.

The seven Land Rover Electric Defenders will now go into real life trials across some of the world’s roughest terrains.

David Keene, Chairman at RDM Group, added: “Being involved in such a high profile project is great for RDM and builds on our considerable experience in EV and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. It’s also an important step forward in our long-term vision to offer a dedicated low volume vehicle converter/build facility for car makers.”