KISSIMMEE, Fla., July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- There are Land Rovers, and then there is Project Wilder, a hand-crafted California Land Rover Station Wagon by ECD Automotive Design with subtle styling cues from original series Land Rovers and later Land Rover Defenders, purpose-built to rule every road and outmatch every expectation. Conceived under California skies and brought to life in ECD’s Rover Dome, Project Wilder is more than a custom vehicle, it’s an untamed, 700+ horsepower thrill ride and ECD ...

KISSIMMEE, Fla., July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- There are Land Rovers, and then there is Project Wilder, a hand-crafted California Land Rover Station Wagon by ECD Automotive Design with subtle styling cues from original series Land Rovers and later Land Rover Defenders, purpose-built to rule every road and outmatch every expectation. Conceived under California skies and brought to life in ECD’s Rover Dome, Project Wilder is more than a custom vehicle, it’s an untamed, 700+ horsepower thrill ride and ECD ...

Core Insights - ECD Automotive Design is enhancing the classic Defender experience through interior upgrades in partnership with German seat manufacturer Scheel-Mann, focusing on comfort, space, and luxury [3][9]. Group 1: Key Enhancements - The introduction of bespoke Scheel-Mann seating, including the Traveller F series front seat known for its long-haul comfort and orthopedic-grade ergonomics, is now available on ECD builds [5]. - The Scheel-Mann LRD Edition features lift-up seat cushions for easy access to the factory battery and toolboxes, improving roadside service efficiency [6]. - Redesigned center consoles now include integrated cup holders, wireless chargers, and lockable compartments, enhancing functionality and comfort [7]. Group 2: Cabin Optimization - Modifications to the floorplan allow front seats to shift significantly rearward, improving comfort for both drivers and passengers while maintaining rear capacity [8]. - The re-engineered rear tub layout enhances middle-row accessibility and overall cabin flow, addressing long-standing comfort issues [8]. Group 3: Company Overview - ECD Automotive Design, trading under NASDAQ: ECDA, specializes in restoring luxury vehicles, combining classic aesthetics with modern performance [10]. - Each vehicle is bespoke, designed by clients through a luxury design experience, and hand-built over 2,200 hours by master-certified craftsmen [10]. - The company was founded in 2013 and operates from a 100,000-square-foot facility in Kissimmee, Florida, employing 105 skilled workers [10].

Core Insights - ECD Auto Design has introduced a new 700+ horsepower BLUEPRINT V8 engine, available as an upgrade for the Defender lineup and Range Rover Classic builds, marking a significant enhancement in performance options for luxury SUVs [2][9]. Company Overview - ECD Auto Design is a public company listed on NASDAQ under the ticker ECDA, specializing in the restoration of luxury vehicles, combining classic aesthetics with modern performance [10]. - Founded in 2013 by three British automotive enthusiasts, the company operates from a 100,000-square-foot facility in Kissimmee, Florida, employing 105 skilled craftsmen with extensive certifications [10]. Product Development - The new BLUEPRINT V8 engine is a response to client demand, integrating decades of experience with LS-based drivetrains to deliver a powerful yet classic driving experience [3][4]. - Key upgrades for the 700+ HP configuration include a new front-end rotating assembly, enhanced cooling systems, upgraded transmission and differentials, and refined ECU tuning [7][5]. Market Positioning - The 700HP option is designed for clients seeking a blend of classic design and modern performance, appealing to performance-focused collectors and luxury clients [9][8]. - ECD emphasizes a bespoke process, allowing clients to customize their vehicles extensively, with each build taking approximately 2,200 hours to complete [10].