New electric ute from Isuzu unveiled, NZ launch expected
Japanese manufacturer unveils much-anticipated fully electric pick-up, and a local berth is likely. Matthew Hansen writes.
Having initially confirmed in October last year that it was planning to produce a fully electric version of its popular D-Max ute, Isuzu has now followed through on its promise – unveiling its first EV pick-up earlier this week.
Showcasing its D-Max BEV concept ahead of this month’s Bangkok Auto Show in Thailand, Isuzu confirmed not only a bevy of specifications for the model, but also named a range of markets where it expects to sell the model.
In a statement, the brand confirmed that following a launch programme in Europe and the United Kingdom in 2025, the plug-in D-Max will land in Australia. Based on proximity and the trend of Australian-designated models also appearing here, a New Zealand berth appears to be likely.
Speaking to Stuff, an Isuzu New Zealand spokesperson could not confirm whether the D-Max EV in its production form will be heading to local showrooms, but did not rule it out.
“At the current stage we cannot comment on timing and local availability for the electric D-Max. With that in mind we are pleased to see the continued progress made towards low-emissions alternatives in the ute segment,” said the spokesperson.
The D-Max concept is powered by dual electric motors producing a combined 130kW of power and 325Nm of torque – a slight dip in output relative to the 140kW/450Nm you get from the 3.0-litre turbodiesel Isuzu D-Max already sold here, and a close match to the 110kW/350Nm Isuzu’s 1.9-litre diesel engine develops.
This powertrain is paired to a 66.9kWh battery pack and four-wheel drive. Isuzu did not confirm a range figure for the model, although it is expected to sit around 300km unladen.
Of particular relevance to ute customers is towing capacity. Isuzu boasts that the D-Max BEV concept will have similar hauling capabilities to its diesel cousins. Its braked towing capacity is rated at 3500kg (the often cited segment standard), with payload rated at 1000kg.
“The fulltime 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 minimising noise and vibration,” said the marque.
“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 D-Max BEV concept wasn’t the only electrified ute Isuzu unveiled this week. The brand also whipped the covers off of a mild hybrid D-Max concept, which pairs the brand’s 1.9-litre diesel engine with a hybrid system.
When it comes to styling, the D-Max BEV looks very similar to the traditional diesel models. A new grille and headlight arrangement features blue highlights. The lack of radical visual changes will likely appeal to those wanting something on the more subtle side of alternatives like the Tesla Cybertruck.
Speaking of alternatives, while there is only one electric ute currently on the market – the soon to be phased out LDV eT60 – there is likely to be several models on the market by the end of the year.
Both BYD and
KGM have confirmed plans to launch fully electric pickups locally by the end of the year.
Ford will enter the plug-in space shortly, with its Ranger
PHEV hybrid.
And LDV’s replacement for the eT60 is also destined for local sale.
“We are pleased to see the continued progress made towards low-emissions alternatives in the ute segment.” Isuzu spokesperson