The classic Land Rover Defender is known for its rugged charm, military heritage, and go-anywhere utility. But in 2025, it is becoming something else entirely — electric. From Hyper9 motor swaps to full Tesla drive unit conversions, EV Defender builds are redefining what’s possible with a vintage 4x4.

Whether you’re building a silent off-roader for weekend escapes or a zero-emissions city cruiser, electric Land Rover Defenders are the future of classic vehicle customization.

Why Convert a Defender to Electric?

Fuel prices are fluctuating, and cities are tightening emissions laws. But beyond practicality, EV performance is simply exhilarating. A Tesla Defender build combines instant torque, zero-maintenance drivetrains, and sustainable power with all the iconic style of a vintage Defender 90 or 110.

EV conversions also reduce environmental impact while preserving the original vehicle’s body, frame, and presence on the road. Instead of replacing your classic 4x4, you are reengineering it for the next generation.

Tesla Defender Conversions: What’s Involved?

At Shoreline Vehicles, our electric Defender conversions primarily focus on two distinct systems: the Netgain Hyper9 and the Tesla Model 3 drive unit. Both offer unique advantages depending on how you plan to use your vehicle.

1. Tesla Model 3 Drive Unit (The Performance Choice) The most powerful option is a mid-mounted Tesla motor sourced from a Model 3. This delivers up to 300 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a 0–60 mph time of around 5 seconds — faster than most modern SUVs.

In this configuration, the original engine and gearbox are removed and replaced by a compact, efficient electric drivetrain. Power is distributed to the axles via a specialized reduction box, while the engine bay is repurposed for a custom battery pack to maximize range. With a large enough battery bank, you can expect up to 250–300 miles of real-world range.

2. Hyper9 Defender Builds (The Purist Choice) Prefer to keep the mechanical feel? The Hyper9 electric motor delivers around 120 hp and 260 Nm of instant torque, but crucially, it retains the original gearbox and transfer case. This allows you to shift gears and use low-range 4WD just like the original truck. It is ideal for urban driving, farm use, or clients who want a modest electric upgrade. Range typically hovers around 100 miles.

What Do You Get with a Shoreline EV Conversion?

A Shoreline electric conversion isn’t just about the motor — it is an end-to-end transformation. We upgrade every system to handle the new power and weight distribution. A full specification includes:

High-voltage battery pack (custom fabrication for engine bay/rear)
Tesla drive unit OR Hyper9 Motor
Digital EV instrument cluster (styled to look vintage)
DC/DC converter to power 12V systems (lights, radio, etc.)
Electric power steering system
Electric brake vacuum pump
High-voltage heater element for instant climate control
CCS Fast Charging port (located behind the original fuel cap)
Upgraded wiring harness and Battery Management System (BMS)
Regenerative braking setup

The end result is a fully electric Defender 90 or 110 that retains its rugged exterior and vintage charm — but drives like a 2025 luxury vehicle.

What Does an EV Defender Build Cost?

An electric conversion represents a significant investment in the future of your vehicle.

Tesla Conversions: A full Tesla-powered build typically starts at around $150,000. This reflects the complexity of the fabrication, the high-performance motor, and the significant battery capacity required for long range.
Hyper9 Conversions: For a lighter-duty option, Hyper9 builds are generally available in the $60,000–$85,000 range.

Note: Shoreline offers phased build plans and full transparency on parts, labor, and options.

The Benefits at a Glance

Zero Emissions: Drive anywhere without worrying about smog tests or city access zones.
Instant Torque: Effortless acceleration that leaves modern traffic behind.
Silence: No diesel rattle means you can actually hear the ocean or the conversation next to you.
Reduced Maintenance: No oil changes, no fuel filters, and fewer moving parts.
Future-Proofing: High resale value as demand for electric restomods grows worldwide.

Ready to Go Electric?

At Shoreline, we have experience with every powertrain imaginable — from LS3 V8s to silent electrics. If you are thinking about converting your Land Rover Defender to electric power, now is the time to start the conversation.

Contact us today to discuss which power unit fits your lifestyle. Your classic 4x4 deserves a future — and it doesn’t need gas to get there.

Electric Defender Builds in 2025: What to Expect from Tesla-Powered Conversions