ECD Automotive Design’s Project Big Sky Has Arrived
The Land Rover is a sky-hued, American-built custom Defender 110 with modern power & performance that maintains its classic style…
ECD Automotive Design, creator of restored Land Rovers and custom classic vehicles, unveiled Project Big Sky, a bespoke Defender 110. Finished in a Fiat Light Blue, Project Big Sky is a one-of-one reinterpretation of the iconic Defender, built entirely by hand at ECD’s 100,000-square-foot Florida facility. ECD says this vehicle embodies the freedom of expression, blending timeless British heritage with modern styling and precision American engineering.
Inside, Corbeau Trailcat seats are covered in custom tan leather with a single vertical diamond stitch pattern, perforated in the front row, and paired with heated and cooled functionality. The extended 2+2+4 seat layout includes inward-facing rear jump seats. Additional touches include custom door cards with vertical diamond stitching, Wenge gloss-finished wood cargo panels and a bespoke double center console.
Under the hood, Project Big Sky is powered by a GM LT1 V-8 engine with 455 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, high-performance Alcon brakes and ECD’s proprietary Air Ride suspension.
“At ECD, we don’t just build vehicles—we craft experiences,” said Kevin Kastner, chief revenue officer of ECD. “Project Big Sky is the result of a deeply personal journey with our client—from first sketch to final stitch. The level of detail, creativity and luxury infused into every element reflects not just exceptional design, but a shared vision. This custom Defender is more than transportation; it’s an expression of taste, individuality, and the power of American craftsmanship at its best.”
A Combination of Art & Style
Project Big Sky’s Fiat Light Blue color is complemented by a full suite of Zermatt Silver accents—from the custom roll cage and roof rack to the front bumper, light guards and checker plates. It also includes a classic grille with silver slats, 18-inch Sawtooth wheels and BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires. The company says every element is built with harmony in mind, creating a visual rhythm that’s both sophisticated and confident.
A WARN 10,000-pound winch integrated into the custom bumper, four LED spotlights mounted on the roll cage, rear work lights and metal light guards add functionality. Custom Optimil exterior components in brushed silver metal finish the look with a modern yet timeless character.
The ECD custom extended center console, finished in two-tone leather with contrast stitching, features dual wireless chargers, cupholders for all three rows, and a built-in audio upgrade with Focal Premium speakers embedded into the rear section.
An Expression of Personalized Automotive Luxury
ECD says Project Big Sky is not just a vehicle—it’s a reflection of a discerning lifestyle. Handcrafted from the ground up, it represents the company’s unwavering dedication to design, experience and legacy. Built in the USA, it’s a vision fully realized in aluminum, leather, wood and horsepower.
