Twisted unveils four exciting developments

Four years after the end of Defender production, Twisted unveils four exciting developments

Four years to the day since JLR ceased production of the classic Land Rover Defender on January 29 2016, Twisted Automotive has made four major announcements that highlight continuing interest in the iconic vehicle.

Silverstone showroom

To meet the needs of customers in the south of England, Twisted is adding to its North Yorkshire headquarters with a boutique showroom in the heart of British motoring country.

Twisted Silverstone will open in March, offering clients in London and the south to view and test drive vehicles, or access specialist servicing, within close proximity.

Located 30 minutes by train, or an hour’s drive, from the capital, the 2,000 sq ft base ​will feature a new Twisted Cafe​ where customers and enthusiasts can meet to talk all things Twisted. A number of Twisted models, will be on site, including the 6.2L 430bhp V8.

Business development manager for Twisted Silverstone is newly appointed Ian Gray. He said: “Twisted’s mission is, as ever, to continue celebrating the Defender’s heritage and to re-engineer it to be the very best it can be. Our Silverstone base will enable us to share this vision with an even greater audience.

“I’m extremely excited to be heading up this project that will increase Twisted’s profile and offer a wider audience the opportunity to experience the magic of a Twisted. The boutique showroom is in the heart of some fantastic driving country and I can’t wait to welcome our first visitors.”

Middle East arm of business launched

Further international expansion is also planned. Following the launch of Twisted North America last autumn, Twisted Middle East will open later in 2020.

Twisted has already made a significant number of sales in the region, including Qatar, the UAE, Oman and Kuwait, and enjoys a dedicated following among off-road enthusiasts.

Headed up by Matt Duckett who has recently joined the Twisted Group from JLR, Twisted Middle East will include a showroom and maintenance facility in Dubai but serving a wider UAE audience.

Matt is a former JLR engineer in the Middle East who was also part of the team that worked on stunt vehicles used in the new James Bond film, No Time To Die, working at the famous Pinewood Studios as well as on location in the Scottish Highlands and Italy.

He said the aim was to create a dependable, desirable brand founded on the unsurpassed quality of the Twisted vehicles and backed by outstanding customer service.

Inaugural North American build

Meanwhile, the Twisted North America team has completed the first US Twisted build since the North American arm of the business was launched in October 2019. The NA-V8 90 has been hand-built on both sides of the Atlantic to create a unique, ultimate imagining of the classic Defender.

In line with Twisted philosophy, the NA-V8 remains true to the spirit and heritage of the original but with serious power upgrades and the latest in infotainment and interior comfort.

Work has already begun on its 110 companion; the pair will be on display at the New York International Auto Show, Stand 1601, Level 1, in April.

Twisted NA are also working on a collaborative, invitation-only launch and drive event with the Classic Car Club of Manhattan, where both vehicles will be available to test drive.​ Orders are currently being taken and​ prices start at $250,000.

Lightweight debut

And back in Thirsk, the​ team has put the​ finishing touches to the first Lightweight build, Twisted’s tribute to the original used by the British Army between 1968-1984.

Part of the Remake History collection, this model is built in ​Twisted’s own Classic colour, Willow Green​, and features a canvas roof, double bumper, half height doors and a three front seat configuration – combined with all of Twisted’s usual preparation work by the talented technicians in Yorkshire.

Just 10 delivery-mileage vehicles have been allocated from the Remake History collection for the Lightweight builds, ensuring they will be highly sought-after. The vehicle will have a delivery date of summer 2020.

Charles Fawcett, founder of Twisted Automotive, said: “Four years to the day since the last classic Defender rolled off the JLR production line, our continued expansion illustrates the enduring passion for this iconic vehicle that exists not just here in the UK but across the globe.

“As guardians of the heritage of this British icon, we’re incredibly proud of how Twisted is continuing to grow. We’re delighted to bring the Twisted experience to an even greater audience.”