The vehicle was created for the Formula 1 driver by Retro Automotive.

Prior to his upcoming appearance at this weekend’s Canadian Grand Prix, British driver Lando Norris took delivery of a bespoke Defender from Retro Automotive at his home on the French Riviera.

Using an original Land Rover Defender 90 as the template, the vehicle has a number of unique features that distinguish it from others and are tailored to the McLaren driver’s specifications. The most noticeable of all is the removal of its roof which is a first for Retro Automotive, the company that Norris chose for the commission after seeing their creations on Instagram. Overall, 1,000 hours were spent turning the vision into a reality.

One of the world's leading classic Land Rover restoration specialists since its formation in 2018, Retro Automotive’s team of skilled technicians hand build each project from the chassis up focusing equally on aesthetics and functionality.

The McLaren driver also took inspiration from his employers, using a Nardo Grey colour mix tailored just for him and Muirhead Egyptian Blue leather for the interior to reflect its new Mediterranean surroundings. 3D-printed metal ‘Lando Norris’ iconography is displayed around the car, including at the centre of the leather steering wheel.

The Defender sits low to the ground and has adjustable air suspension to ready it for a variety of different terrain. For practicality and comfort, rear bench seats have been extended to accomodate more passengers while Apple CarPlay and a Marshall Kilburn II cubby speaker system provide entertainment.

Retro Automotive create just 15 Defenders per year with demand far outstripping supply. The whole process from consultation through to delivery takes around six months and in-person visits to the factory in Yorkshire are often encouraged.

Following the completion of Lando Norris’ Defender, the company will swiftly move on to its next project which you will be able to follow on its Instagram page - @Retro_Defenders

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Retro Automotive