Love what we do but crave more power, more technology or an automatic transmission? Welcome to Arkonik Special Vehicle Operations. Located at both our UK Headquarters in Somerset and our dedicated facility in Charleston, South Carolina, on the East Coast of America. SVO exists to blend the unique quality and style of an Arkonik Defender with an array of upgrades, to increase the comfort and performance of your vehicle.
What's Included
Engine &
Transmission
Want a Defender but feel the need for speed? Our SVO powertrain upgrade will provide you with a whole new level of power and seamless acceleration, resulting in a first-class driving experience.
ExploreRunning
Gear
Wheels, steering, and suspension components designed by world-class manufacturers. These products combine to provide your SVO build with the ultimate in vehicle handling.
ExploreOptional
Upgrades
A growing array of interior and exterior options designed to add that extra touch of comfort and style to your custom design.
ExploreEngine & Transmission
GM® LS3 6.2 V8
Part of GM’s Gen IV engine family and used in a broad range of high‑performance vehicles from Chevrolet’s legendary Corvette to the Silverado pickup. These are extremely reliable, modern power‑plants that produce an impressive 430 BHP. You will also benefit from an extensive manufacturer 24 month warranty.
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Displacement 6.2L Cylinders 8 BHP 430 Torque 424 lb.ft 0-60 4.9 seconds (Defender 90) MPG 16 mpg -
Automatic
GM® 6L80E 6-speed
The 6L80E is the latest version of GM’s smooth shifting 6-speed gear box. The 6L80E allows for tap shift functionality with a brain that learns the driver’s habits and adapts to each individual situation depending on gas pedal and driver’s input. Built to handle up to 700 lb.ft of torque. Maximum engine input torque for the 6L80 is 440 ft.lbs. and the maximum output torque is 664 ft.lbs.
GM® LT1 6.2 V8
The LT1 is a GM-manufactured, naturally aspirated, 6.2 L V8 ‘small‑block’ engine first introduced in the C7 Corvette and now used in the current model year Camaro SS.
It supersedes the LS family of engines, which we currently fit in our SVO-upgraded Defenders. The LT1 offers an unprecedented balance of performance and efficiency with a unique block casting, cylinder head design, and oiling system.
Aside from the notable power increases over the LS3, the LT1 has formidable technological advancements, such as direct injection and continuously variable valve timing.
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Displacement 6.2L Cylinders 8 BHP 495 Torque 500 lb.ft -
Automatic
GM® 10L80 10-speed
This transmission utilizes shorter gaps between its ten forward gears to keep the engine in its ideal power band during acceleration. It can then upshift to one of its three overdrive gears for maximum fuel economy. The 10L80 features six clutches, four of which are closed at any one time, reducing energy loss; as well as a unique thermal bypass that allows the transmission to warm up to operating temperatures faster.
Running Gear
Performance Brakes
Power is nothing without control. Whilst engineering our LS3 upgrade package, the braking system was at the forefront of its development. Utilizing race-developed technology in the form of 6 piston (front) 4 piston (rear) billet alloy callipers and 330mm vented and grooved discs, you have the reassurance of vastly improved safety and performance gains over standard Defender brakes. In addition, we incorporate a Hydroboost system which is a pressurized system giving the pedal a vastly improved pedal feel which is akin to a modern day vehicle.
Performance suspension package
To greatly enhance the ride quality we fit progressive springs, either at standard ride height or lowered 1”, which noticeably stiffens up the ride without compromising the quality.
These springs are matched to performance adjustable shocks which deliver industry-leading, race dominating performance. Custom tuned anti-roll bars complete the handling package to provide spirited cornering capability.
Stainless Steel
Exhaust System
A completely custom T304 stainless steel system developed specifically for our LS/LT powered Arkonik Defenders. These exhausts have been crafted by hand, tig-welded, and use a mandrel bend to increase airflow.
This system not only looks great, but it delivers every single one of those additional horses like a well-versed orchestra; balancing a pleasing burble under normal driving conditions and climaxing in an unmistakable, spine-tingling growl under acceleration from the 3” rolled tailpipe.
Optional Upgrades
Power Windows
Our power windows are designed to bring seamless convenience to your Arkonik Defender. Experience easy and effortless operation with just the push of a button. Add an extra layer of sophistication to your vehicle, with the advantage of being operated much faster than crank windows, they minimize time and effort, putting control right at your fingertips. The time from fully closed to fully open and vice versa is a mere 3.5 seconds.
Central Locking
Experience the comfort of a modern-day vehicle whilst retaining the charm of a classic. Locking your Defender is now as simple as pressing a button. With a key fob remote you can access your vehicle with ease and confidence. Our intelligent indicator light system flashes upon locking and unlocking, giving you a clear visual confirmation of your vehicles status. Manual locking and key function as normal and remote unit operates effectively from up to 120 feet range.
Rear A/C
The Arkonik rear A/C unit is designed to be the perfect addition to your under-dash air conditioning system. This smartly designed unit occupies the front cubby box position, effectively circulating cool air into the rear of the vehicle for a consistently comfortable environment. Furnished with rear USB ports, this unit empowers rear passengers with the ease of charging their devices while on the go.
Seamlessly integrated into a leather covered unit, it incorporates a flip top storage box that conveniently replaces the existing cubby box. With dual vents and variable fan speeds, customizing your comfort has never been easier. The dual zone independent front and rear A/C function allows the rear unit to operate independently of the front system.
Parking Sensors
The ultimate solution for fail-safe parking. Consisting of four ultrasonic sensors which can be mounted both at the front and the rear giving you enhanced confidence when parking your treasured Arkonik Defender.
In addition to the audible alert with adjustable volume, it can be paired with an LED visual indicator. The sensors are fully waterproof, and their small footprint means they are extremely discreet. They can also be color coded to match your bumper for an additional cost.
Dakota Digital Dash
With our digital gauges, you get the best of both worlds: analogue style with all the benefits of digital technology. With this system, you can change the color of the readings and needles to whatever you want. You also have complete control over what display information you want to show — you can choose between 0-60 mph, lap times, oil temperature, and even odometer readings.
Performance Axles
One key area where we’ve focused our attention is the axle system. Our brand-new differentials, hand-built by market experts Winchester Gears® in the UK, offer superior performance and handling on both corners and uneven road surfaces. This means that you can have more confidence in your vehicle’s stability and control, even in challenging driving conditions.
In addition, our upgraded axle kit, specifically the MAER® heavy-duty axle on the LT4 application, utilizes the renowned Eaton® Detroit Trutrac ATB (LSD) for enhanced traction. This limited-slip differential provides greater power distribution to the wheels, resulting in improved torque bias. Unlike traditional clutched LSDs, the Trutrac ATB doesn’t have wear-out parts like clutch or friction plates, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Ultimately, these enhancements translate into better safety, performance, and handling for your vehicle. You can feel confident knowing that your Arkonik Land Rover Defender is equipped with top-of-the-line components that have been carefully selected and expertly installed to deliver an exceptional driving experience.