Custom Electric Jeep Build
Built for outdoor adventures, towing trailers and general workshop experimentation, this custom electric jeep project began using body plans from Toylander before evolving into something much more powerful and heavily modified.
While the waterproof MDF body followed the original Toylander design, almost everything underneath was redesigned and engineered from scratch — including the chassis, running gear, steering system, electronics and drivetrain.
The jeep is powered by a 900W 36V motor mounted to a ride-on mower transaxle with differential drive, powered by three 12V mobility scooter batteries connected in series. Speed control is handled using an electric bicycle controller and floor-mounted accelerator pedal.
Underneath, the vehicle is built around a welded steel box-section chassis with custom steering components, rose joints, agricultural hinges and fabricated mounting points designed to survive years of enthusiastic driving and outdoor use.
Originally intended as a fun project for my two boys, the jeep quickly became one of the most ambitious engineering builds created at Udny Designs.
Finished Build
The project began with constructing the MDF body panels before gradually evolving into a much larger engineering project involving chassis fabrication, drivetrain modifications and custom steering components.
The build included welding a steel box-section frame, adapting a ride-on mower transaxle, wiring the electrical systems and experimenting with upgraded power and control systems using repurposed parts and workshop fabrication techniques.
Project Details
- Waterproof MDF body based on Toylander plans
- Custom welded steel box-section chassis
- 900W 36V electric motor with differential drive
- Powered by three 12V mobility scooter batteries
- Upgraded steering, drivetrain and electronic control systems
- Handmade and engineered in rural Scotland
Interested in custom workshop builds?
Many Udny Designs projects begin with workshop experimentation, recycled parts and creative engineering ideas before evolving into something completely unique.
I’m currently exploring workshop-inspired project ideas, practical build guides and creative modifications based on projects like this custom electric jeep.
If you’d like to know more about the build or future workshop projects, feel free to get in touch.