Kissimmee, Florida may be best known for its proximity to theme parks, but in the world of bespoke automotive design, it’s where something far more thrilling just rolled out of the workshop. ECD Automotive Design has unveiled its latest masterpiece—Project Oliver, a 1996 Land Rover Defender 110 Signature Edition that turns heads not only for its muscular stance and luxury finish but also for the way it captures the spirit of adventure without compromise.

From the moment you see Oliver’s deep Mercedes-Benz Obsidian Black Metallic paint glinting under the sun, you know this Defender means business. Wide-bodied and sitting confidently on 18-inch satin black Kahn 1983 wheels wrapped in BFG All-Terrain rubber, its presence is as commanding in the city as it is in the wild. Subtle but striking touches like ceramic-coated dual exhaust tips, a bespoke steering guard etched with the name “Ollie,” and full LED lighting strike the balance between rugged functionality and custom-crafted elegance.

Of course, appearances only scratch the surface. Under the hood of this Land Rover Defender, Project Oliver roars with an LT1 V8 engine, paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission that makes conquering sand, snow, and highways equally effortless. Brembo brakes, heavy-duty axles, and ECD’s own air ride suspension ensure that no terrain is off-limits. Add in a Warn winch and a full external roll cage, and you’re looking at a Defender ready to handle anything from backcountry trails to black-tie events—without breaking stride.

Step inside, and Oliver continues to impress. The cabin is wrapped in premium nero black leather with diamond stitching, paired with a suede headliner and German square-weave carpeting that whispers refinement at every turn. The craftsmanship here is undeniable: billet metal accents, a hydro-dipped wood radio console, and even satin-finished flooring complete with rivet detailing. The driver grips a MOMO Indy wooden steering wheel, while the vintage-style gauges nod to the Defender’s heritage.

Comfort hasn’t been left behind either. Heated and cooled Scheel-Mann Traveler seats up front, a 60/40 split bench in the middle, and rear jump seats offer flexibility for every journey. Meanwhile, the tech suite is thoroughly modern: a touchscreen infotainment system with CarPlay and Bluetooth, Infinity Kappa audio, wireless charging, a 360-degree camera system, and even a digital rearview mirror. Remote start, blind spot assist, and rear A/C further blur the lines between rugged explorer and luxury tourer.

As Scott Wallace, co-founder of ECD, put it: “Project Oliver is the embodiment of us building exactly what our client designs with uncompromising attention to detail.” And that’s what makes Oliver so special—it’s not just another restored Land Rover. It’s a fully personalized vision brought to life, designed as much for the open road as it is for the unique personality of its owner.

ECD Automotive Design has made a name for itself by restoring icons—Land Rovers, Jaguars, Mustangs, and more—while seamlessly fusing old-world craftsmanship with cutting-edge performance. With Oliver, the team once again proves that their Defenders are more than just vehicles. They’re rolling works of art, engineered for those who demand both freedom and refinement.