Arksen, better known for constructing top-tier exploration and adventure marine vessels, has made landfall by introducing a series of overland vehicles. With Arksen Overland, the company aims to apply its technical prowess and engineering expertise in developing an array of specialized overland vehicles, broadening its presence in the adventure and exploration sectors beyond maritime offerings.
Arksen Overland operates under the guidance of automotive industry expert and recent Arksen Overland Chief Executive Officer Rich Brown, who spent most of nine years as the head of Ford Motor Company’s product and strategy team. The Arksen Overland team aspires to create and expand a range of sustainable and capable exploration vehicles; as such, Arksen Overland’s first vehicles will be based on current manufacturer platforms, specifically the Mercedes-Benz Unimog and the Classic Land Rover Defender. Rebuilt from the ground up with modern technology, custom features, and thoughtful design aesthetics, the resulting vehicles will embody the spirit of adventure while providing contemporary comfort and reduced carbon emissions compared to comparable new vehicles.
Explaining the decision to base three of the overland options on the classic Defender, Arksen founder Jasper Smith says,
“There is still no better way to explore the world than using a traditional mechanical machine that can be easily fixed in the most remote areas. Land Rover’s Defender epitomizes the very essence of adventure. We’ve simply adapted an already excellent platform to make them even more fit for purpose without creating a dramatic carbon footprint.”
By leveraging the iconic Defender, Land Rover-based Perentie (an Australian military spec. equivalent), and Unimog, Arksen Overland has devised a fast, efficient, and scalable solution in collaboration with carefully selected suppliers and partners. The initial range of vehicles caters to a wide variety of adventures, with the 2023 launch lineup featuring:
- Arksen U1700: An ultimate long-range overland adventure platform based on the Mercedes Unimog, complete with a new expedition body.
- Arksen D110: A modernized Land Rover Defender that blends off-road prowess with contemporary refinement and equipment.
- Arksen P110: An upgraded Land Rover Perentie soft top designed for the most adventurous explorers and enhanced for modern utility.
- Arksen D110e: An all-electric variant of the D110 with full 4×4 capability, near-silent operation, and zero emissions.
The Arksen D110, P110, and D110e are offered in two core specifications: Adventure Prepped platform (including built-in power, water, and fridge/freezer) and Expedition Ready (featuring a curated Arksen expedition fit-out).
As of March 2023, four vehicles have been completed and are available for sale. Additional builds are underway, with the first Arksen D110e EV expected to debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July.
Arksen Overland’s restoration approach focuses on enhancing the adventure experience, resulting in vehicles that evoke the romance of travel from bygone eras, updated for modern comforts and reliability. The company believes that fostering shared memories through adventure and exploration is the key to inspiring future generations to care for our planet and environment. For those seeking a sustainable, capable vehicle for extended trips, weekend exploration, or daily driving, Arksen Overland’s new range promises to offer an exceptional choice.
Customers can view available inventory, design their ideal vehicle using the Arksen configurator, and contact the team to commission a unique build via arksenoverland.com.
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