Client goal
The problem to solve
Finish and prove the first VASS prototype electric Defender so it could be used reliably as a simple summer house run-around, suitable for local journeys and trips to the coast without constant attention.
Project case study
First VASS EV Defender Prototype Final Testing and Commissioning
EV conversion prototype / final commissioning
The first VASS EV Defender prototype used a Tesla Model 3 motor in place of the transfer case, a compact 35 kWh battery pack, 7 kW AC charging and 30 kW CCS. The vehicle was completed in early 2022 and remains in use as a practical coastal run-around.
Discuss a related project
Vehicle / platformClassic Land Rover Defender EV prototype
Project typeEV conversion prototype / final commissioning
The brief
What VASS was asked to do
As part of the original VASS team, the task was to further test, commission and finish the prototype so the vehicle could operate reliably, charge correctly and behave consistently in normal use.
Scope of work
Defined engineering work
- Final EV system testing and commissioning
- Drivability testing
- Start-up and shut-down behaviour checks
- 7 kW AC charging checks
- 30 kW CCS charging validation
- Fault finding and reliability improvements
- General EV system refinement before regular use
Key systems
Systems involved
- Tesla Model 3 motor mounted in place of the transfer case
- 35 kWh battery pack
- 7 kW AC charger
- 30 kW limited CCS charging
- High-voltage safety system
- EV control and commissioning workflow
Engineering challenge
What needed careful resolution
- Working within the limits of an early small battery pack
- Keeping power and CCS charging conservative enough to protect the battery
- Turning a prototype into a vehicle that did not require constant workshop attention
- Validating the usability of a compact-range Defender EV concept
Practical outcome
The result
The vehicle was finished in early 2022 and is still being used. It proved that a compact electric Defender could work well for short-range, lifestyle use and provided valuable experience for later, higher-power VASS EV Defender projects.
For similar clients
What this means for another project
This project is a strong example for clients who do not need a large touring battery. A smaller, lighter and simpler EV conversion can make sense when the vehicle is mainly used for short trips, local driving or coastal/summer house use.
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