East Coast Defender, now known as ECD Auto Design, has expanded its restoration business beyond Land Rovers, Jaguars, and Mustangs to include the iconic Toyota Land Cruisers FJ40 and FJ60. The company’s reputation for turning out high-end, personalized vehicles has now extended to these classic off-road vehicles, offering customers a chance to own a meticulously restored and modernized version of the beloved Land Cruiser. This article will delve into the process ECD Auto Design goes through to restore these Toyota Land Cruisers, the upgrades they offer, and the customization options available to clients.
East Coast Defender started its journey by specializing in restoring Land Rovers to luxury standards, earning them the nickname “Rover Dome.” As the company evolved, they ventured into Jaguar and Mustang restoration before changing their name to ECD Auto Design to reflect their expanded scope of restoration projects. The latest addition to their lineup is the restoration of Toyota Land Cruisers FJ40 and FJ60, showcasing their ability to transform classic vehicles into modern masterpieces.
Every Toyota Land Cruiser restoration by ECD Auto Design starts with a thorough frame renewal, followed by upgrades to the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and exhaust system. The original Toyota six-cylinder engines are replaced with Chevy’s powerful 6.2-liter LS3 small-block V8, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission for improved performance. The trucks also receive upgraded cooling and fuel systems, a new suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and 16-inch wheels with BFG tires for enhanced off-road capability.
Customers can choose from a wide range of exterior colors, with the option to match the body panels to the dash color. The standard bumper is ECD’s slimline unit, while additional options with winches are available. Inside, the vehicles feature hand-stitched leather seating, air conditioning, modern audio systems with Bluetooth connectivity, LED lighting, a backup camera, trailer wiring, and an alarm system. The attention to detail and personalized touches make each restoration unique and tailored to the customer’s preferences.
ECD Auto Design plans to begin production of the restored Toyota Land Cruisers in the third quarter of the year, with deliveries expected early next year. Prices start at approximately $230,000, but customization options and additional features can increase the final cost. The company emphasizes that every aspect of the FJ restoration can be customized, allowing customers to create a truly bespoke vehicle that suits their preferences and style.
ECD Auto Design’s expansion into restoring Toyota Land Cruisers FJ40 and FJ60 demonstrates their commitment to providing customers with top-notch restoration services for a variety of classic vehicles. The company’s expertise in modernizing and personalizing these iconic off-road vehicles ensures that each restoration is a unique blend of vintage charm and modern technology. With a focus on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail, ECD Auto Design continues to set the standard for luxury vehicle restorations in the industry.