
ECD Automotive presented its new project called Project Wilder, created on the basis of the classic Land Rover Defender, but became a completely different car in spirit and characteristics, worthy of the attention of collectors and fans of powerful SUVs. The first glance at this car evokes associations with a return to the roots of the brand, because the body is painted in the recognizable Eastnor Green color, and bronze inserts Nara Bronze, 20-inch wheels and massive BFGoodrich tires add a strong, almost monumental character to the car, as if every detail was thought out to the smallest nuances. The chassis received a reliable Raptor Liner coating, protecting from stones and dirt from below, wooden linings on the thresholds and rear bumper create the image of an SUV, which combines eternal traditions and practical materials to emphasize that we are not just a tuned car, but a work of craftsmanship.
The Project Wilder interior deserves a special mention, as it demonstrates an impressive combination of comfort and sports focus. Inside, there are Recaro seats, recognized as the standard of comfort in many sports cars, and a steering wheel with a truncated bottom reminds of the racing specification of the car, while all the upholstery is made using Buffalo Distressed Cuoio leather with expressive quilting, and the ceiling is covered with Alcantara - all these details create an atmosphere of sophistication, echoing the petal inserts made of Sapele wood. The multimedia system now supports Apple CarPlay, the interior received a panoramic sunroof, Focal speakers, two subwoofers and a rear-view camera, as well as electric windows and an advanced blind spot monitoring system - all this equipment shows that Project Wilder can be used not only in off-road conditions, but also in urban comfort during long trips on the highway.
The main combat core of the car was the upgraded GM eight-cylinder engine with two turbines, which develops an impressive seven hundred horsepower and is designed for active off-road and dynamic use. Enthusiasts of such hardware will immediately appreciate the six-speed manual transmission T56, which allows the driver to fully feel control over power and speed, and to match the power unit, a sports exhaust system Borla Sport is installed, giving the car a huge sound, comparable to the roar of healthy nature. This sound becomes even more impressive after installing an air suspension system that adapts the ground clearance to driving conditions, and Brembo sports brakes, which, together with other equipment, create the impression of a powerful, but at the same time precisely controlled SUV.
Despite the lack of official data on the price, it is easy to imagine that Project Wilder is an exclusive for connoisseurs of high-quality tuning with an investment point of view. In this car, the classics are brought to the forefront, but supported by modern technologies organically integrated into the traditional image of the Defender. Transforming an iconic SUV into a true monster of power, comfort and luxury is an indicator of ECD Automotive's capabilities, demonstrating that respect for the model's history can be maintained while maximizing the technical component. This SUV is more likely to become a symbol of a status hobby than an everyday car, but in the world of auto cyberpunk, where old school and high technology meet, it is precisely such projects that cause a fit of nostalgia and admiration at the same time.