ECD Auto Design announced Project Pelican, a meticulously crafted Defender 110 that reflects ECD's commitment to preserving heritage while elevating the client experience through customized details and hand-selected touches. Finished in Fiat Light Blue, Project Pelican is powered by a LS3 V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivering effortless power and refined drivability. An adaptive air ride suspension, Alcon high-performance brakes, and a Borla stainless sport exhaust provide confidence and composure across varied terrain.
Exterior details, including Zermatt Silver accents, Optimil hardware, a full roll cage, and an expedition-ready roof rack, balance durability with understated elegance. What makes Project Pelican a true stand-out is its interior. Inside, Project Pelican is a masterclass in tailored luxury, wrapped in rich Bellissimo Anis distressed leather, the cabin immediately sets a warm, elevated tone.
The Corbeau Trailcat seating is set in a 2+2+4 layout and features single vertical diamond stitching that adds texture without overpowering the classic Defender silhouette, complete with the build's custom Pelican emblem embroidered in its headrests. The front and middle-row seats are heated and ventilated, perforated for comfort in any climate, while the inward-facing rear jump seats extend the same leatherwork and stitching, ensuring no seat feels secondary. Anchoring the interior visually is Pelican's custom PlasDECK flooring in Aged Teak finish with black lines.
Running the length of the cabin, it evokes classic yacht decking, a durable and elegant touch complementing its ocean elements. Centered in the cargo area is the build's signature Pelican emblem in black, inlaid directly into the teak. The beautifully showcased emblem is a quiet mark of ECD craftsmanship and the namesake of Project Pelican itself, symbolizing resilience, precision, and the ability to thrive wherever.
The dashboard and door cards are fully wrapped in matching leather, with diamond-stitched inserts and added storage pockets for practicality. A hydro-dipped Brazilian Rosewood radio console adds warmth and contrast, echoed by the Evander wood steering wheel with chrome spokes and metal studs, blending vintage character with modern control. vintage-style gauges, Optimil silver metal pedals, and interior door furniture reinforce the analog, mechanical soul beneath the luxury.
Function is seamlessly integrated throughout: a custom ECD center console with rear A/C and cupholders front and rear, wireless charging, USB ports, JL Audio sound with dual subwoofers tucked under the middle row, and complimentary storage including a hidden driver-side lockbox. Even the unseen areas, footwells, seat boxes, tunnel, and bulkhead, are finished in body-color Raptor liner and ceramic coated for long-term durability. Altogether, Project Pelican's interior feels purposeful yet indulgent, with nautical themes, it is a heritage-driven Defender built to reflect the client's lifestyle.
Project Pelican exemplifies ECD's focus on intention over excess: a classic form elevated with modern capability, built for those who value authenticity, a one-of-one experience and expert craftsmanship.
