Land Rover EV conversion packs the engine in the wheels, weighing as much as the original
UK-based Bedeo is rolling out a Land Rover Defender EV convertible based on in-wheel motors from Bedeo-owned Protean Electric.
According to Bedeo’s press release, the Defender is the first in the “Reborn Electric: Icons” conversion series. The program will expand the company beyond its current business of electric truck conversions into a growing cottage industry of electric classic cars — and perhaps more to come. contract to supply in-wheel motor technology.
Land Rover Defender EV conversion by Protean
The first completed Defender EV has a 75-kwh battery pack for 153 miles of WLTP range—which could be as little as 110 to 125 miles if it were run in EPA cycle tests. The standard 22 kw onboard AC charger can recharge the pack in about 5 hours, while the optional DC fast charging can do the same in 90 minutes (possibly less time for a typical 80% charge than).
Bedeo claims it is “committed” to maintaining the original curb weight and driving dynamics with each of these versions, achieved in part through the “weight reduction advantages and technical innovations” of the in-wheel motor. The company did not disclose the weight of this example.
While many companies and DIYers are converting old internal combustion vehicles to electric power, Bedeo also claims to be the first company to use wheel motors in such a conversion.
Electric motor in Protean wheel
Protean had one manufactures wheel motors for more than a decade. Prior to its current UK ownership, the company is now defunct Automobile manufacturer NEVS is funded by Chinathe company is disposing of some of the assets of Saab, which bought Protean in 2019.
Since then, Dongfeng, a Chinese automaker with a joint venture with Volkswagen, has supplied Protean engines for its Fengshen E70 sedan. Dongfeng claims yes The world’s first passenger car were homologated for sale with in-wheel motors, but previous Lordstown Endurance pickups also used them, originated from Elaphe. However, very few Endurance trucks were built.
