January 29th 2023
E.C.D. Automotive Design is a specialist company that takes rugged off-road capability to new heights. Their focus on restoring classic Land Rovers and crafting bespoke luxury builds results in vehicles that are both civilized and powerful. When the company names one of its masterpieces “Project Mayhem,” it’s a clear indication that this creation is not your average vehicle. The combination of modern amenities and a powerhouse engine make these vehicles unstoppable forces on any terrain, ready to unleash a little chaos wherever they go.
Tom Humble, a co-founder of E.C.D., describes Project Mayhem as the epitome of a modernized Land Rover Defender 110. He proudly labels it as an “offroading demon” designed to tackle any obstacle in its path. The imposing 20-inch wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires, combined with the rugged front bumper equipped with a built-in winch and protective skid plates, convey a sense of indestructibility. It’s as if Project Mayhem is daring anyone to get in its way and is ready to cause a little mayhem wherever it goes.
What sets Project Mayhem apart is its striking, monochromatic color scheme. From the roof rack to the rims, all pieces of hardware are covered in gleaming, reflective Santorini Black paint. The result is a look reminiscent of the iconic helmet of Darth Vader, exuding an aura of power and intimidation. In person, the all-black exterior must be as deep and dark as staring into the bottomless depths of the abyss or the soul of the Devil himself.
Under the hood, Project Mayhem is powered by a monstrous GM Performance LT4 supercharged V8 engine that delivers raw power to conquer any terrain, be it snow-capped mountains or sprawling deserts. With an output of 650 horsepower, as seen in other builds from E.C.D., this beastly machine can reach 60 mph in a mere 5.0 seconds. The black Brembo brake calipers reign in the horses, ensuring stopping power to match the acceleration, while the E.C.D. Air Ride suspension provides a smooth and comfortable ride over even the roughest terrain. Project Mayhem is not just a work of art but a machine built to conquer the wild.
The interior of Project Mayhem is as dark and sleek as its exterior. The wheel is a MOMO Nero, with gauges that are distinctly American. Four heated Corbeau racing seats provide comfort to the first two rows, while the back seats can accommodate an additional four people on inward-facing benches. Every inch of the interior is dressed in black, from the diamond-stitched seats and door panels to the black-stained teak accents, making every ride a chic and sophisticated experience.
The cost of unleashing the beast isn’t available, but remember, it doesn’t come cheap. As E.C.D. specializes in creating bespoke luxury builds, the starting price for a modified Defender 110 is $224,995 and only swells from there. But fear not; for those seeking a more electrifying experience, E.C.D. will build you a Tesla-powered Defender if green Mayhem is more your style. The choice is yours, so decide wisely and prepare to be captivated by the resulting waves of power and comfort.
Source and Images: Motor1