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Building a legal custom Defender in the United States

By LLM Reporters   |  

When it comes to luxury off-road cars, it doesn’t get much better than your own custom-built Defender. A bespoke set of wheels designed to meet all of your needs and tastes is a great investment for getting from A to B in style, especially if you like to be equipped for all types of terrain – plus, you’ll also get to look and feel pretty great whilst cruising down the freeway.

One thing you’ll need to consider before making the investment, however, is compliance – as rules can be particularly strict, depending on where you live in the world. In the USA in particular, meeting state compliance requirements is an especially challenging task within the automotive industry, especially in states like California.

Here, vehicles are only able to meet the full-spectrum of requirements when they are backed by a custom-building team that has a high level of knowledge, depth of experience, and attention to detail, so it’s wise to consult with the specialists instead of trying to go it alone. As with many things in life, you get what you pay for, so be prepared to part with a good chunk of cash and you’re guaranteed to get the very best.

When it comes to luxury off-road cars, it doesn’t get much better than your own custom-built Defender

ECD Automotive Design has been meeting compliance standards on a state-by-state basis since its advent in 2013, making it a well-placed company to share some advice. So, if you’re keen to tour Route 66 in your own custom-built drive, then read on for all you need to know.

Vehicle compliance considerations

From emissions testing to manufacturing requirements, meeting compliance regulations across different states can pose a unique challenge. Land Rovers and Defenders are incredibly dominant vehicles overseas, especially in Europe – but the same safety standards and regulations do not always apply in the United States. For this reason, having an experienced team like ECD Automotive Design that routinely aquires, refurbishes, and redesigns Defenders from Europe is paramount.

ECD Automotive Design has been meeting compliance standards on a state-by-state basis since its advent in 2013, making it a well-placed company to share some advice

The firm works on compliance for any model, ranging from Custom Defenders 110, 90 and 130 to the Electric Defender, Range Rover Classic and Land Rover Series 2A. Add to that its custom EDC UVC and Pursuit offerings, and it pretty much has you covered.

Each custom project has unique structural aspects, capabilities, and specs. In turn, different modifications and adjustments are necessary to meet state compliance standards while fulfilling the potential for each type. Additionally, states like California have rigorous emission standards testing. Using a proprietary process at ECD Automotive Design, legalities are able to be met and exceeded, even in states as strict as California. For a full list and to see customization options, be sure to visit the ECD custom build page.

Compliance is no easy task, so seek out a company that offers an unparalleled capability to provide in-house customization, tailored to any design specifications, and you’ll be onto a winner

The next steps

Land Rover Defenders command a loyal following worldwide. If you’re interested in exploring the available stock at ECD Automotive Design, visit the company’s website. They proudly offer custom projects and non-restored vehicles alike for purchase, and as a world-renowned brand that offers the full spectrum of Defender and Land Rover options, should be the first port of call for any USA based enthusiast.

Compliance is no easy task, so seek out a company that offers an unparalleled capability to provide in-house customization, tailored to any design specifications, and you’ll be onto a winner. It’s never wise to leave anything to chance, and you’ll be glad you made the investment.