Isuzu D-Max electric ute confirmed for Australia

The Isuzu D-Max electric ute has been confirmed for Australia.

Isuzu has unveiled the ‘D-Max EV concept’ ahead of the Bangkok International Motor Show next week, which previews the production 'D-Max BEV' model due to launch in mainland Europe in 2025.

While exact timing for Australia has not been confirmed, it will likely launch here sometime in 2026.

4

Based on the current D-Max ute launched in 2020, the EV concept features a 66.9kWh lithium-ion battery, full-time 4X4, dual electric motors with a 130kW and 325Nm total output, a one-tonne payload, and a 3.5-tonne braked towing capacity.

It has a maximum speed of “over 130km/h”.

Isuzu has not confirmed other technical specifications for the concept, such as its maximum driving range or charging speed.

“D-Max BEV [battery electric vehicle] has been developed to meet a broad range of commercial and passenger vehicle needs while retaining the tough underlying performance expected of pickup trucks,” said Isuzu.

4

“The full-time 4WD system with newly developed e-Axles in front and rear offers excellent performance on rough roads and a linear acceleration feel characteristic of BEVs – all while minimizing noise and vibration.”

“Furthermore, high towing capacity is ensured by adopting high-power electric motors along with a robust frame and body design, allowing the D-Max BEV to perform just as well as existing diesel models.”

The Isuzu D-Max BEV will launch in “select mainland Europe markets such as Norway in 2025” followed by Australia, the United Kingdom, Thailand and “other countries based on market needs and the maturity of EV charging infrastructure".

The design of the D-Max EV concept follows the facelifted diesel model due in Australia imminently – but adds a closed-off grille and darkened headlights with blue accents, as well as different alloy wheels.

In October 2023, Isuzu president Shinsuke Minami confirmed the brand would produce a battery-electric ute.

“Isuzu will first introduce it in Europe and then examine its gradual rollout by meeting the needs of each market, including Thailand,” he said.

The addition of an electric model will assist Isuzu in meeting increasingly strict emissions mandates, including Australia’s proposed New Vehicle Emissions Standard (NVES).

Isuzu Ute Australia said that – without further consultation from the automotive industry – the proposed policy would impact “many vehicle brands”, especially those that sell utes and larger SUVs in high volumes.

The Japanese commercial vehicle brand currently only sells two models in Australia, the D-Max ute and related MU-X off-road SUV. Both share their body-on-frame chassis and diesel powertrains with the Mazda BT-50 ute.

“The implementation of the NVES proposed by the Government presents timing, financial and engineering challenges for many vehicle brands, particularly those brands that provide Australians with utes and large SUVs as part of their range, and ultimately risks negatively impacting Australian consumers,” said the brand.

4

“Globally, Isuzu's transition to low- and zero-emission vehicles is underway, with the brand committed to introduce an electric ute.

“However, the reality is that due to the infancy of zero-emission technology in light commercial vehicles, it will take more time to develop zero-emission utes and large SUVs that are both affordable and fit for the specific needs of Australians, including the ability to travel extensive distances, carry a load and tow.”

Isuzu Ute Australia has echoed calls from Toyota and other brands to classify large 4X4 SUVs such as the MU-X as light-commercial vehicles, which face less stringent emissions targets.