Twisted News - Winter 2022

Over the past year, Twisted has expanded (hello, Twisted Marine) and the team has been talking to more people than ever.

We’ve learned that our normality is far from ordinary. Our standard of work is industry-leading. Our customers are part of the family. There’s nothing we don’t know about restoring and improving classic Defender.

Extraordinary? Maybe.

Anti-ordinary? Certainly.

As a proudly British business, we’ve been guilty of being bashful. We’d rather shine the light on the iconic Defender and you, our customers, than on ourselves.

It’s no secret that many brands uprate and update Defender. No one does it as well as us.

We have so many stories to tell.

Come on the adventure with us.

Charles Fawcett TWISTED FOUNDER

The Old Cinema is a beautiful place. Our doors are open and the kettle is on. With a shop, cafe and vehicles on display, you’ll be looked after. Our space encapsulates the essence of Twisted, so if you’re in Yorkshire, come and say hi.

We won’t work on a

unless its core components are sound. Every vehicle undergoes a three-hour ramp inspection by one of our expert technicians before we touch it. After all, there’s no benefit in adding to a vehicle if it needs attention at the core.

The TVE is Twisted’s fully electric Defender. Developed exclusively for Twisted, the TVE retains all the Defender’s off-road functionality including hand brake, hi/low box and diff lock. All the “EV” components are brand new, OEM standard parts and not salvaged from other cars.

Twisted Automotive is part of the Twisted Group. In July 2022, we announced ownership of the businesses had been transferred to our 35 employees through an employee ownership trust (EOT). The deal means staff from Twisted Automotive and specialist dipping company, Hydrographics, now collectively share full ownership of the business.

and that’s why we love it. Defender doesn’t make sense. It’s not perfect. We often smile as we think of the men and women on the line that built it over the years. Like humans, no two Defender are the same. If you think about your favourite people, aren’t their quirks what you love most about them? Real things aren’t perfect. Defender isn’t perfect. We love it.

That’s what our customers tell us. One long-standing customer recently said, “Owning a Twisted is not something to take lightly. It's a privilege. The simple joy a Twisted Defender gives the driver and the people you pass is more than a supercar offers. The passion within the Twisted team is a testament to its core value, "Twisted is one big family". It's a family we want to be a part of forever.”

THIS

LIFE'S A BEACH

Originally hand-built by the men and women of Solihull in 2005, this TD5 90 has been rebuilt from the ground up. Nothing was left untouched.

Registered in Guernsey, this model has a mileage of just over 27,500 (that’s roughly 1600 miles a year). Twisted technician, Andy, took it back to bare bones before the chassis was stripped, galvanised and coated. We replaced every rusty nut and bolt and fitted new bushes throughout, so you know you’re are buying something that has demanded blood, sweat, tears and endless cups of Yorkshire tea.

With the chassis completed, every drivetrain component is updated or upgraded. The transfer box has had its ratios altered, differentials pegged, and CV joints and half shafts replaced with heavy-duty offerings better suited to this vehicle.

Our progressive suspension system has transformed the all-important handling, giving a more controlled and predictable experience whilst delivering the most engaging drive. Stopping power has not been forgotten with our Twisted by Alcon 6-pot front and 4-pot rear brakes. Finally, our 18” Rostyle wheels have been finished in our sand texture coating and shod in BF Goodrich tyres.

The original 5-cylinder TD5 engine provides an unmistakable soundtrack.

Having undergone a full rebuild and the clutch and flywheel replacement, we’re confident this engine handles its extra power and torque. This additional performance comes from bespoke engine remapping, hybrid turbo, boost control, entire stainless exhaust system, silicone hoses, EGR deletion and performance intercooler.

We removed and brought each panel up to scratch before being repainted in Bahama Gold (replicating Charles Fawcett’s (founder of Twisted) own Retro edition 90).

The beautiful sand-coloured soft top is the perfect vehicle to enjoy, with the sides rolled up and the sun beating down. Remove the hood and door tops altogether for the ultimate summer experience.

It

benefits

even on the darkest country roads. All of the exterior fixings have been replaced with stainless bolts. The rear looks purposeful with its full-width step bumper, coated crossmember and the all-important Twisted Yorkshire plaques.

The Defender has been stripped, soundproofed, and texture-coated in Bahama Gold. This 90 now includes four tip-up rear seats so the whole family can enjoy the ride. The entire interior is retrimmed in saddle leather to compliment the exterior colour. We raised the armrest on the cubby box lid to provide a comfortable leaning point.

also

from LED headlights alongside our Twisted daytime running light bumper, giving superb visibility

FEATURED BUILD

This Twisted T130 is the ultimate work-hard, playharder vehicle. Now boasting our latest TV8 conversion and pushing northwards of 450hp, this will tow your trailer easily through the week.

One of the last Defender 130 off the line and boasting full XS specification and double cab configuration, it was the perfect vehicle to become something exceptional.

Twisted technician, Chris, has spent 530 hours on the build. The chassis has a special coating to increase its lifespan, and the handling has been dramatically improved with upgraded springs, shock absorbers and anti-roll bars.

Its imposing presence is partly thanks to a two-inch lift and our 18” classic wheel (finished in black) fitted with 35” BF Goodrich tyres. This setup provides unrivalled on and off-road control.

Naturally, one of the most significant additions to this Defender is our TV8 conversion (boasting a GM LT1 6.2 litre V8 engine) paired with a silky smooth 8-speed automatic transmission with sports mode. It provides around 460 horsepower and seemingly endless torque. This powertrain is refined around the town but let loose on the open road to relish the noise and power.

The exterior has LED lighting and our stage one front-end conversion. The handles, window blocks and fuel filler cap have all been replaced with our billet items. A daytime running light bumper and steering guard add to the Twisted look. The rear loadspace has been covered with a custom chequer plate lockable lid with gas strut-assisted access hatches. Inside, the tub has been fully lined with our texture coating, providing a washable, hard-wearing area for your work or camping gear.

This vehicle has been soundproofed and recarpeted to provide a level of refinement usually unheard of in a Defender. On top of this, Recaro heated seats with body colour backs offer comfort. The headlining has been re-trimmed in black Alcantara. The dashboard, auto-console and door handles are all trimmed in matching leather with a contrasting red stitch.

A double DIN head unit conversion facilitates modern technologies such as Apple CarPlay, DAB radio and reversing camera, meaning your favourite driving music is only a touch away. It’s further enhanced with our incredible 8-channel audio set-up. The Twisted steering wheel completes the look.

With Twisted Yorkshire plaques and a custom build interior plaque, this rarity has full Twisted build status.

WINTER HAS ARRIVED

Twisted's best winter upgrades for your Land Rover Defender

As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, you need to be able to see clearly and keep warm. Chuck in your winter coats, load up the muddy wellies and go for a drive. Your Defender, your adventure.

Here are nine winter upgrades and accessories, collated by team Twisted.

1) New wipers. This simple change will make a big difference to your visibility. From £65 + VAT for three.

2) Smaller steering wheel. Gain space in the cabin, improve your feel for the terrain beneath you and enjoy a much nicer touchpoint. We replace the standard Defender steering wheel with a smaller, thinner, leathertrimmed version. From £575 + VAT

3) Best wheel and tyre package. So obvious but often missed; you should always have the best set of wheels and tyres for your conditions - never more so than during winter. From £2455 + VAT

4) Improved handling. With Twisted’s progressive suspension, you gain more predictability and control on alpine roads or frozen fields. From £2995 + VAT

5) Additional lighting. For short days and long nights, extra lighting is a must. We offer LED headlights, light bars, spot-lights, work lights, bumpers with integrated driving lights and front grille lighting. Choose a set-up that matches your lifestyle. From £795 + VAT.

6) A roof rack. A new roof rack is a go-to accessory for extra space. Transport your skis in the winter and your surfboard in the summer. From £2995 + VAT.

7) Soundproofing and panel alignment. Keep the noise down, the heat in and the water out. From £6,500 + VAT. Note: this is 4-5 days of expert work that will transform your Defender.

8) Upgraded in-car media. With Twisted’s integrated media package featuring Nav and CarPlay, your winter journeys will always sound as good as they look. From £4500 + VAT.

9) Customised load space. Why not add bespoke storage, like a high-level coat rack, to keep your winter warmers clean without losing load space? Costs vary.

P.S. Don’t forget to keep your Defender’s servicing up to date. We can do that for you too.

WINTER. THE TIME OF YEAR THAT THE DEFENDER KEYS STAY AT THE TOP OF THE PILE BECAUSE IT’S YOUR GO-ANYWHERE VEHICLE.

POSTCARDS FROM

GOODWOOD REVIVAL, we adore you. It’s one of our favourite events on the calendar.

The atmosphere was incredible, and the team enjoyed every second of talking to Defender enthusiasts young and old.We had a TV8 T130 Double Cab, TVS T110 Soft Top, TD5 T90 Born Soft Top and TVE T90 Soft Top on display.

WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS...

OUR THIRSK FACTORY. THE BEATING HEART OF THE BUSINESS. THE DOOR’S ALWAYS OPEN AND THE KETTLE’S ALWAYS ON. COME IN.

God's own country YORKSHIRE

Owning a Twisted is not something to take lightly. The simple joy of a Defender gives the driver and the people you pass more than a supercar. The passion within the Twisted team is a testament to its core values, "Twisted is one big family".

JOIN US AS WE RECAP 300 MILES OF DRIVING THROUGH THE BEST PLACE IN THE WORLD* *WE MIGHT BE BIASED

LUKE AND BECCA OWNERS OF DAVE THE DEFENDER

We all take something different from the Twisted brand and contribute something too. An extraordinary (anti-ordinary ) mindset… and extraordinary (anti-ordinary) collaboration. Twisted is copied by many, yet to be succeeded by any.

Firstly, it’s the knowing that it’s the ‘best made better’ Defender built by a team of people passionate about what they do, the vehicles are so well engineered, and each one is unique to its owner.

Secondly, it’s the pure joy I get from driving something so special, understated, competent and refined. It’s an old-fashioned analogue but with subtle modern twists.

Lastly, it’s being part of the Twisted family, whether it’s the team or other owners; just being in contact with other people that share my enthusiasm for Twisted and being invited to take part in events like the Yorkshire 300 is such a privilege.

MICHEL AND VALERIE

JAMES AND EMMA

Twisted’s anti-ordinary people.

OWEN MORTIMER

By his admission, Owen’s path into R&D began when he chose the college his nanna worked at because he knew he’d get free food. Since then, he’s completed his degree, trained at the Twisted workshop, spent a year as Parts Manager and now heads up Twisted R&D. He has recently led the development of many Twisted projects, most notably the bespoke TV8 powertrain.

What would you say to someone thinking about

You must understand what sort of person you are and what company you will suit. Are you a person that will enjoy a set role as part of a large department and become a specialist in a large corporation? Or are you someone who wants to be involved in a smaller business where you’ll have a say in everything and have to adapt?

Also, think about your interests and carve a career from them because it’s important not to get bored. I did off-road vehicle design, which is specialised - there were only 13 of us on that course.You can do a general automotive course and head anywhere.

Why is R&D necessary?

In a specialist market like Land Rover restoration and modification, people see things elsewhere, decide what they want and then ask Twisted to do it because we’re the best. However, that only gets you so far. To grow as a business, you must be bold and pioneer change. That’s why R&D is important.

However, you must ensure the numbers stack up, and the new parts work beyond a single build. After all, we need to generate profit.

Today’s supplier price increases mean that something I worked on a year ago needs to be re-costed to make it viable. However, we’ll have learned much about fitting it effectively in that time.

Where do you take inspiration?

I’m into mountain biking. Every year, every manufacturer launches a new frame. They don’t create a bike and say, “that’s it, we’re finished,” they always look to push boundaries. That’s the same as my role at Twisted - to drive constant improvement.

I ride an Orbea, so I watch that brand closely, along with a company called Unite. I have Unite components on my bikethey’re always looking into new coatings for a better product, inspiring me to do the same.

3D printing and rapid prototyping are also interesting. It’s impressive what people out there are creating - working from home with a cheap printer.

The automotive industry can be inwardlooking, so it’s crucial to look up and see what’s being innovated elsewhere.

Tell us about the career path that got you here.

I fell into it. I knew I didn’t want to do A-levels when I finished school. I considered Graphic Design at college but opted for Land-Based Engineering (mainly because my nanna worked at the cafe, so I got free food). I chose the course because it was more practical theory, and the free food was a bonus!

Two weeks before college ended, one of the lecturers told me about the Off-Road Vehicles course at Harper Adams University. It sounded fun. “Why not?” I thought.

I was the last accepted to the course and had to share my uni room because I was so late to join.

Many people in my course went to large companies like JLR and JCB. I just felt that wasn’t for me. I wanted to find something smaller, where I would learn quickly.

I started on placement in the Twisted workshop for a year as part of the uni course. When I graduated, I returned for three months to cover for someone and never left. I met my partner, Sara, at Twisted, and now we have two children.

How does Twisted approach R&D?

We’re working with Defender. No two came off the line the same.You’re battling that fact. I’ll draw something out to the millimetre, but it was built to the inch. It’s a flawed vehicle and that’s why people love it.

Everyone drives differently and expects something different from a Defender. It’s not a case of “that works, that doesn’t”; it’s balancing the pros and cons of each part, feel and cost.

We work in low numbers, so if we develop something better in the R&D process, we can implement it immediately. If you’re working for a large company that does all its R&D and launches 100,000 units, you can't react.You can’t change. Twisted can. We can change it on the car there and then.

The relationship between R&D and the technicians at Twisted is fundamental. Anything I develop, they have to build so I rely on their feedback. I spent years as a technician, so I know what it takes to build, but every single technician is part of the R&D department because they live and breathe Defender. I just make their brilliant ideas a reality.

What’s the best thing about working at Twisted?

I love the varied nature of the role. It makes me proud when I see something that goes out. The TV8 is an example.

Being part of a small team is special. We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses and work together. One of the best things about Twisted is the team.

THE MOVE TO EMPLOYEE OWNERSHIP

We were excited to announce earlier in the year the successful transfer of the business to an employee ownership trust (EOT), an arrangement that will see Twisted run for the benefit of its 35 employees.

Twisted Automotive's employees (and employees at specialist dipping company Hydrographics) now collectively share full ownership of the business.

The move provides greater incentive for the team to influence business decisions with day-to-day benefits and financial rewards.

Charles will remain in his role as managing director. He said about the deal: “It is with great pride that we enter employee ownership; a venture that recognises both my appreciation of my hardworking team and the importance of their contribution to the company’s success.

“I’m delighted that Twisted has secured its future independence with a focus on its people. By offering them the opportunity to own the business they have helped to build and empowering their future growth and development for years to come. The company will flourish for years to come.

“Employee ownership is an exciting stage in the company’s history and is key to our succession planning in the wider business arena. Whilst we’ve created a more employee-centric structure, our board of directors will remain active in their current roles and continue to contribute and drive the business to new heights, maximising the opportunities this will bring.”

R&D Manager

a career in R&D?

DEFENDER OF THE SEAS

DID YOU KNOW WE TWIST BOATS TOO?

Avfter two decades spent growing Twisted Automotive into a worldwide brand and renowned automotive engineering business, with a solid team behind him, Charles’ attention turned to a lifelong passion for all things marine. After meeting Jake Cronk and purchasing a marine engineering business in Salcombe in 2021, Twisted Marine was launched. With an incredible team of engineers enabling accelerated entry into the market, Twisted Marine develops a range of ‘resto mod’ 90’s power boats and RIBs. We can also work on customers’ boats. And store them.

“I have a passion for all things fast and anything that floats with big engines. I originally trained as a marine engineer within the leisure industry before obtaining a masters degree in mechanical engineering. I then went on to work for the Mercedes Formula 1 and Formula E teams in powertrain design before returning to the marine industry. The Twisted culture is a true amalgamation of my passions and the projects we are working on are trailblazing.”

JAKE CRONK MANAGING DIRECTOR | TWISTED MARINE

-SERIES -SERIES

Twisted Marine is delighted to have secured the purchase of a limited number of Axopar 22 and 25 hulls to create the ultimate adventure craft, further growing the offering of custom, pedigree, Twisted edition hulls. This brings together the skill set of a long-established, handcrafted, automotive adventure brand, known for building expedition and performance Land Rovers and the award-winning design of Nordic boat builder, Axopar Boats, known for spearheading adventure boating around the world.

The Twisted RIB was designed our way. Our RIB takes an iconic British-designed deep-V hull with a pedigree of more than three decades and makes it better.

From bow to stern our engineers have refined the performance, handling and onboard equipment to create an uncompromising experience. Not every improvement can be seen. But that doesn’t matter – because although you might not see it, you’ll begin to feel it the second you sit behind the helm of the Twisted RIB.

YORKSHIRE’S NEWEST COFFEE SHOP OPENS WITH AN EIGHT-METRE, £165,000 SPORTS BOAT ON SHOW.

While renowned for modifying classic Land Rover Defender, Twisted added a marine arm to the business in 2021. Twisted Marine builds on the 20 years of engineering expertise from Twisted Automotive to custom-build RIBs and sports boats.

The café marks a new venture for the proud Yorkshire business. With freshly ground coffee, homemade bakes and a warm welcome, it hopes The Old Cinema become a hub for the market town of Thirsk.

Charles Fawcett, founder, explained, “The Old Cinema is a little slice of heaven if you like machines alongside your caffeine. Our brandnew T300S sports boat is certainly unmissable but I’d encourage guests to discover other treasures too.

We have the most extensive and last stock of unused, modified classic Land Rover Defender. You’ll also find some wonderful old vehicles, such as the last edition classic VW Beetle with just a few hundred miles on the clock, a TT race bike and a 1939 tractor.

The Old Cinema is somewhere people can call in, grab a coffee, share stories and see our vehicles up close.”

Staff at The Old Cinema cater to various allergies and offer a selection of milk options. Dogs are welcome, as well as families.

The Old Cinema building dates back to July 1914, when it opened as the Gaiety Cinema on Long Street, close to Thirsk town centre. It was extensively damaged by fire in 1930 and was later acquired by a tyre fitting company before Twisted bought and renovated it in 2020.

Opening hours are: 0800 to 1700, Monday to Friday.

For more information please visit: www.theoldcinemathirsk.co.uk

YOU DON'T LOOK LIKE THEY LOOK. YOU DON'T SAY WHAT THEY SAY. YOU DON'T LAUGH WHEN THEY LAUGH. YOU DON'T HEAR WHAT THEY HEAR. YOU DON'T DRIVE WHAT THEY DRIVE.

Thirsk business, Twisted Automotive, has opened a coffee shop at its showroom.

The Land Rover Defender specialist claims The Old Cinema is the only coffee house in Yorkshire, possibly the UK, to house a speed boat.

GET IN TOUCH:

NORTH YORKSHIRE SHOWROOM LONDON SHOWROOM

The Old Cinema 38 Long Street Thirsk North Yorkshire YO7 1AW

United Kingdom

Opening times: Mon-Fri: 08:00 - 17:00 Sat-Sun: Appointment only +44 (0)1845 574 990 info@twistedautomotive.com

The Old Cinema is a really cool events space. A space for meeting our customers and friends, and a space to keep some of the last Defender to roll off the production line. It’s also the home to some more ‘unusual’ vehicles and boats - but you’ll have to pay us a visit to see what’s here!

21-23 Radley Mews Kensington London W8 6JP

United Kingdom

Opening times: Appointment only +44 (0)203 908 2995 london@twistedautomotive.com

Bringing a small section of Yorkshire to the capital, our showroom is positioned in the heart of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. Home to a select few Twisted builds, it provides the opportunity for test drives by appointment and a commissioning space for Twisted customers.

NORTH YORKSHIRE FACTORY

Unit 1 & 2

Sussex Court Thirsk North Yorkshire YO7 3TA

United Kingdom

Opening times: Mon-Fri: 08:00 - 17:00 Sat-Sun: Closed +44 (0)1845 574 990 info@twistedautomotive.com

Our North Yorkshire Factory is where the magic happens. Nine vehicle ramps and nine technicians are constantly busy creating our unique builds which, over our 21 years in business, have seen Defender shipped, flown or driven to all four corners of the world.

SALCOMBE WORKSHOP

Twisted Marine Lincombe Boatyard Salcombe Devon TQ8 8NQ

United Kingdom

Opening times: Mon-Fri: Appointment only Sat-Sun: Appointment only +44 (0)1845 574 990 info@twistedmarine.com

Our Salcombe HQ is where the magic happens. There is no better place to develop, refine and dial in the performance of each Twisted. Our workshop facilities and team of Marine engineers are second to none. With constant access to an onsite slip-way each Twisted is perfected before it leaves the meticulous hands of our Twisted Marine team.

7 Foundry Place Old Tiffield Road Towcester NN12 6FP

United Kingdom

As the only licensed UK supplier of Twisted accessories, Twisted Performance can supply or fit, all Twisted parts that have been through our rigorous research and development process.

Opening times: Mon-Fri: 09:00 - 17:00 Sat-Sun: Closed +44 (0) 1327 227524 silverstone@twistedperformance.co.uk www.twistedperformance.co.uk

COMING SOON...