Custom Panther Dashboard with heritage as the starting point

Our design team began with a simple question: what makes the original Defender dashboard so distinctive? Its proportions, and the way it places function above flourish. Those qualities gave us our foundation. 

“We studied the original dashboard closely. Its simplicity, its logic, its soul. Then we expanded on it, deepening the structure to create space for modern electronics, high-end audio components, and custom modified Puma AC,” says Bastiaan Wolters, Head of Design.

“The aim was not to reinvent. We wanted to take something familiar and extend its potential with care,” he continues. 

Engineering with Intention

“By redesigning the dashboard from the ground up, we felt freedom to highlight the elements we’ve always admired in the classic Defender. One example is the grab handle on the left side. The original has a charming presence, yet never felt truly solid. Ours has been fully engineered to carry real load, giving a reassuring feel the moment you hold it as you step in.
Fitting the infotainment system was another challenge altogether. We wanted it to sit within the CNC bezel and the clean lines of the upper dash without overpowering the design. Achieving that balance took time, but it has become one of the details we’re most proud of,” says Jord Systema who worked on this new eye catcher for 1,5 years.

The process began with detailed 3D scans of the entire dashboard zone, capturing every surface and every component that would need to find its place. With this foundation mapped, our team produced a series of models to study form, fit, and function. Each prototype informed the next, guiding further modelling and engineering until the final design emerged. The production version brings together Multi Jet fushed parts, custom aluminium components, and precision-cut CNC parts. All high quality materials selected for durability, lightness, and their ability to remain silent and steady on the road. 

The result is a structure that honours the Defender’s heritage while meeting the demands of modern adventures. Classic on the surface, contemporary at its core. 

Classic look, modern capability

Although the silhouette remains true to the Defender lineage, the Panther Dashboard houses a technical package designed for today’s journeys. It: 

• accommodates the Puma Tech AC systems, 

• Is built around our in-house developed and build cable harnesses and wiring systems 

• provides maximum internal space for all added features but minimizes impact on internal cabin space. 

• offers new speaker and tweeter positions and options for high-end audio, to fit all customers wishes 

• provides options for our modern, in-house made and fully customizable infotainment system, or even a more classic looking cassette radio 

• introduces ambient lighting to shape the cabin atmosphere 

• Maintaining the iconic grab handles, but without the creaking, allowing you to easily get in and out of the car. 

Every element has its place. Nothing rattles or shifts. Exactly what you need in a luxury bespoke Land Rover Defender. 

A user interface that feels personal

At the centre sits our own digital user interface. An In-house developed software system that is built to personalize all customers dreams. It shows al your preferences and your own Defender as a living presence on the cluster and HMI screens. The layout is clean and intuitive, creating a connection between driver and vehicle that feels both familiar and subtly elevated. 

Crafted to reflect the owner

As with every build, the final expression belongs to the client. The dashboard can be finished in the preferred leather type, paired with aluminium trim in black, silver-grey, matte black, or gloss black. Dreaming of a special colour to match the style of the body of the car? Everything is possible when building your dream Defender. These choices shape not only the look but also the long-term feel. How the dashboard ages, and how it accompanies you during future adventures. 

Developed as a family effort

The Panther Dashboard took 1,5 year to complete. Every curve, fixing point, and interaction was examined, tested, and considered by our own team of designers and engineers. 

It is: 

• strong yet lightweight 

• modern but grateful to its origins 

• durable across climates 

• silent in movement 

• built from high-grade materials 

• and developed entirely in-house 

The first Panther Dashboard can be seen in our bespoke Defender Panterra Rica, a fitting home for its debut. 

“When you are behind the wheel of your dream Defender, the Panther Dashboard is your point of connection. It’s where you look, where you interact, and where the character of the vehicle speaks back to you, combining classic looks with state-of-the-art technology. Creating it with our team was an inspirational adventure where we are all proud of,’ concludes Bastiaan Wolters, who was the driving force behind designing and engineering this masterpiece.

Our brand new Panther Dash is now available as an option for all Panterra electric driven Defenders from The Landrovers. More inspiration? Take a look at the first ever Defender 90 with an automatic sliding roof.