The iconic Land Rover Defender, known for its rugged versatility, is now available in a pickup truck version thanks to the innovative work of Heritage Customs. While JLR, the manufacturer, doesn’t officially offer a pickup variant, this project showcases the Defender’s potential for customization.
Introducing the Heritage Customs Defender Pickup
For years, Defender enthusiasts have dreamed of a pickup version. Now, it’s a reality—sort of. Heritage Customs, a company based in the Netherlands, has created a first-of-its-kind, new-age Defender pickup truck using the large Defender 130 model as its foundation. The conversion leverages the Defender’s inherent strength and pairs it with a powerful 419bhp 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine.
Key Design Modifications
The transformation from SUV to pickup involves removing a portion of the roof to create the truck bed. Safety and aesthetics are both addressed with the addition of a roll hoop. Furthermore, a durable bed liner and roof rack provide practicality, alongside space for a spare tire—usually found on the standard Defender’s tailgate. Heritage Customs refers to this process as a “semi-coachbuilt project,” a fitting description as the truck maintains much of the original Defender’s recognizable appearance.
Bespoke Customization Options
While the core design remains faithful to the Defender, Heritage Customs offers extensive personalization options. Customers can select from a range of bespoke paint colors and wheel designs. The interior can be completely customized with custom upholstery, and a variety of accessories are available to tailor the vehicle to individual needs.
Two Distinct Editions
Heritage Customs hasn’t stopped at a single concept. They’re offering two distinct editions:
- Heritage Edition: This model embodies a “refined, elegant, and authentically classic” aesthetic.
- Urban Edition: Created by Urban Automotive, this edition presents a more modern and assertive look. It features an all-black color scheme, additional cladding around the wheel arches, and four lightbars integrated into the windscreen.
Availability and Pricing
Customers interested in owning a Heritage Customs Defender pickup can now reserve a build slot. The conversion process, which involves transforming an existing Defender into a pickup truck, is estimated to take two to three months. The price for this unique build is approximately £60,000.
A production version of the Urban Edition of the Defender pickup is slated for unveiling at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July 2026.
This innovative project demonstrates the enduring appeal and adaptability of the Land Rover Defender, proving that even iconic vehicles can be reimagined and customized to meet the desires of discerning enthusiasts. The arrival of these bespoke pickup versions highlights the potential for further customization and unique builds within the Defender community
