Really? Yes. Honest. A Land Rover Defender with a bee painted on its roof and 27 exterior colours has been produced in collaboration with Sir Paul Smith, a leading designer. Land Rover said that this bespoke, 1-off, model's hand-painted bumble bee is a tongue-in-check reference to the countryside which is where the vehicle excels. That sounds fair enough to me – I think.

 

Land Rover said the exterior colours - all of which were chosen by the designer from non-stock colours - take “inspiration from the British countryside” and from Defenders used by the military. Sir Paul explained: “I wanted deep rich colours, but at the same time I wanted them to work together yet be surprising.” Furthermore, the wing mirrors, handles and wheels have a satin finish to create a contemporary feel which was of “paramount importance” to Sir Paul.

 

The designer also specified a luxurious cabin in contrast to the model's traditional, utilitarian, feel. Highlights include the black leather seats that incorporate multi-coloured fabric inserts and blue, contrast, stitching. There are also keys and coins painted inside the glove box and the clock has a Sir Paul Smith facia. He explained: “My designs are known for their attention to detail, so I didn’t want this Defender to be any different.” Jolly good.

 

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