In what could be a very opportune time, Isuzu has finally launched the D-Max EV—its first-ever battery electric pickup truck after it was shown off as a mildly disguised concept last year.
Priced at 1,591,000 Thai baht—or around 20 percent more than the comparable 3.0 4x4 AT, the D-Max EV shares its basic platform with the current D-Max. However, it’s been re-engineered to offer full commercial capabilities meaning a ton of payload and 3.5 tons of towing, despite having a 10 percent increase in curb weight (2,350 kilograms).
It’s also made to be fully capable off-road with its 600 mm water wading depth, 210 mm ground clearance, and impressive approach (30.5 degrees) and departure (24.2 degrees) angles.
Design-wise, it’s identical to the D-Max 4x4 double cab with the same 5,280 mm overall length, 1,870 mm overall width, and 1,790 mm overall height. The only changes are the added blue accents found on the grille as well as the EV badging on the front fenders and rear tailgate.
Providing energy to the D-Max EV is a 66.9-kWh lithium-ion battery with an EV range of around 263 kilometers (WLTP). Four levels of regenerative braking with Eco Mode helps extends the range. A battery cooling system ensures efficient operation and extended lifespan, while a Battery Guard offers robust protection when tackling off-road terrain.
Dual electric motors—one for each axle produces a total of 190 horsepower (58 horsepower at the front, 132 horsepower at the back). Combined torque, meanwhile, is 325 Nm (108 Nm at the front and 217 Nm at the back). 0 to 100 km/h is quoted at 10.1 seconds, while top speed is pegged at around 130 km/h.
For those raising their eyebrows at this point, Isuzu says that the relatively low range of the D-Max EV is down to two reasons. First is that it had to sacrifice range to maintain the D-Max’s full commercial and off-road capabilities. Second, its main target market would be either urban dwellers or businesses with a fixed or predictable route.
The D-Max EV can be charged using both AC charging which takes 10 hours, or DC charging which takes up to 50 kW (20 to 80 percent).
To fit the rear electric motor and batteries, the D-Max EV ditches its rear leaf springs for an all-new De-Dion setup improving its overall handling. Cabin noise and vibration is down by 10 percent under full acceleration further improving passenger comfort.
Speaking of comfort, the D-Max EV comes with a list of tech and convenience features which should be familiar to combustion engine D-Max owners. These include an electric power steering system, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, a 9-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, dual zone climate control, leather upholstery, front & rear parking sensors, and an 8-speaker sound system.
In terms of safety, it comes with a 360-degree camera and Isuzu’s Smart Duo cam ADAS system. The adoption of EPS unlocks additional ADAS functionalities such as Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Emergency Lane Keeping, and Lane Departure Prevention.
Globally, Isuzu is building the D-Max EV in both right and left-hand drive in Thailand. It’s already on sale in Europe and with the availability now expanded to Southeast Asia as well, this could make for an interesting addition to Isuzu’s local line-up especially given the record diesel prices due to the Middle East conflict.
263km with a 67kwh battery? That's one inefficient monstrosity
ReplyDeleteGive it a try. Nothing to lose.
ReplyDeleteAny idea on cargo carrying capacity?
ReplyDeleteSame as the combustion model...which is around 1 ton.
DeleteA 4x4 Offroad pick up truck and full EV doesn't belong in the same sentence specially one with a meager 263 km range. They should have tried a hybrid setup instead. Isuzu makes great ICE vehicles but this EV model could be Isuzu's worst gamble.
ReplyDeleteThe Ford F150 has a reputation for being America's best selling truck. However, the F150 Lightning- Ford's electric pickup truck, has been met with lukewarm sales and market reception, despite high expectations. In Nov 7, 2025, The Wall Street Journal reports that Ford may soon cancel its F-150 Lightning electric pickup due to slow sales and Ford lost $13 billion on EVs since 2023.
DeleteIsuzu should probably partner and re-badge until they are ready with their own hybrids or EVs. There is no shame here as Nissan did the same with DongFeng. Mazda with Changan (Deepal) and so on. Like it or now that's the new practical trend or go bust.
ReplyDelete