BUILT TO LAST

A very special Defender anniversary model has been built by Land Rover – with help from supporters of the brand like adventurer Bear Grylls and actress Virginia McKenna.

The one-of-a-kind vehicle, which marks the UK production of the two-millionth Series Land Rover and Defender, will go under the hammer at Bonhams auction house in December as production of the current Defender enters its final phase.

Proceeds from the sale will go to Land Rover’s humanitarian and conservation partners – the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Born Free Foundation.

Jaguar Land Rover chief Dr Ralf Speth said: “Over 67 years, the Series Land Rover and in turn Defender has been the transport of choice for explorers, charity organisations, farmers and even royalty.

“Throughout history it has helped pioneers to reach the unreachable. What started life as an agricultural workhorse has transcended the automotive world to become a worldwide design icon.”

The ‘ Defender 2,000,000’ features distinctive touches like a map of Red Wharf Bay – where the design for the original Land Rover was first drawn in the sand – engraved into the aluminium Defender, which contrasts with the exterior’s silver satin paint.

A unique ‘no 2,000,000’ badge sits on the rear of the vehicle, which is mirrored on the interior console and the design is finished with Santorini Black wheels and wheel arches, roof, door hinges, grille and mirror caps.