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Converting a Land Rover (UK)

There's a fascinating niche in the world of classic automobiles that manages to blend modern technology with the joy of off-road capabilities.

Yes... we're talking about Land Rover conversions. Here's some interesting information and unique aspects about a range of specific upgrades.

7 Applications of a Land Rover Conversion

So, how exactly do you convert a Land Rover... and why would you do that anyway? In the United Kingdom, the niche activity often involves the conversion from petrol to electric or an upgrade of its off-road capabilities.

For example:

You can add some off road accessories, such as a bull bar, a roof rack with light bar, a winch, body lift kits, or auxiliary fuel tanks.

If you convert a Land Rover to electric power you will be replacing the combustion engine (ICE) with an electric motor.

Even so, it's commonplace for Land Rover converters to retain the existing drivetrain as most owners prefer to maintain the original feel for driving it.

Pro Tip: One reason for making Land Rover adaptations is to keep them running while preserving the basic design of these iconic vehicles. As a consequence, the classic Land Rover Defender models tend to be the most popular recipients.

This list contains some of the best classic Land Rover conversions, including one that runs on steam power, an armoured model, and several engine swaps.

Converting Land Rovers to Electric

Apart from the fascinating work achieved by enthusiasts, some companies will convert a classic Land Rover 4x4 to run on electric power.

These specialised companies (e.g. Everrati, Twisted, and ECD Automotive Design) offer a range of high-end EV conversions of Defenders and the Series I, II, and III.

Here's the deal:

Many of them choose to use Tesla or Nissan Leaf batteries to achieve silent, emission-free off-roading capability.

Even though most Land Rover conversions reserve the 4WD system, others choose to simplify the drivetrain for improved efficiency.

Adapting for Off-Road Overlanding

Many of the best Land Rover transformations cater to overlanding aficionados. In other words, some car builders equip Defenders and Discoverys with roof tents, snorkels, solar panels, winches, and an upgraded suspension.

Land Rover Conversions: How to Convert a Land Rover? Some companies will even add a pop-top camper conversion, making them ideal for an extended off-road adventure.

Swapping LS and V8 Engines

Some of the old model Range Rovers and Classic Defenders are often converted with Chevy LS or GM LT V8 engines, resulting in more power and increased reliability.

If we're talking about high-end restorations, the Jaguar Land Rover 5.0L supercharged V8 is also a popular swap.

Some conversions focus more towards diesel power, by replacing older engines with modern Cummins, BMW, or TDI diesel units.

Military-Style Builds with 6WD

Some builders are able to extend the chassis of Defenders in a unique modification that gives a vehicle six wheels instead of the standard four wheels. These 6x6 conversions need an extra axle to increase the load capacity and to allow for safe off-road performance.

One of the military-inspired conversion specialist companies is Bowler and Kahn Design. They can adapt vehicles and fit them with reinforced armor, uprated suspension, and extreme off-roading modifications.

Does the British Army Still Use Land Rovers?

The British Army is in the process of retiring most army Land Rovers (excluding the Land Rover Wolf - a light military vehicle). It seems the Force Protection Ocelot will be the vehicle chosen to replace it.

Why Did the SAS Use Pink Land Rovers?

According to research, the optimum camouflage colour for vehicle camouflage in dessert heat haze is pink. In fact, experimentation on some desert deployments resulted in the tyres being painted pink!

A Converted Luxury Restomod

What about taking an old Defender and completely rebuilding it with modern luxury? Sounds good? In fact, some of the best restomods finish up with custom leather interiors, heated seats, top-grade sound systems, and even touchscreen infotainment.

Pro Tip; If you're looking for a company that specialises in creating high-end, bespoke Land Rover restorations, take a look at Arkonik, Himalaya, and ECD Automotive Design.

Defender Camper Conversions

One of our favourites for camper conversions in the Defender 130. Companies like Alu-Cab and Nomad will adapt them into full off-grid adventure vehicles.

In fact, following the metamorphosis, it's quite common for them to feature a full kitchen, sleeping areas, and a superior indoor shower compartment.

A Steam-Powered Land Rover

Yes, Frank Rothwell is a traction engine enthusiast who created a steam-powered Land Rover in Oldham, England.

This one-of-a-kind creation is a 1967 Land Rover Series IIA that regenerated into a custom-built coal-fired, steam-powered "Landie" with the nickname of "Mildred".

The UK's Smallest Museum?

According to the British Red Cross, a converted Land Rover Defender is now the smallest museum in the United Kingdom.

It is a plug-in, hybrid 4×4 fitted with artefacts, audio games, and other memorabilia (e.g. photographs) about the work carried out by the British Red Cross.

Commissioned by the humanitarian charity and Defender, the project celebrates a 70-year partnership enabling the use of these specially adapted vehicles in more than fifty (50) countries worldwide.