- Performance and Power Specs
- Design and Exterior
- Trim Levels and Variants
- Practical Performance and Capabilities
- Charging and Battery Warranty
- Platform and Suspension
- Launch and Market Availability
- Pricing and Market Reaction
- A Step Toward a Sustainable Future, But Not Without Challenges
Japanese automaker Isuzu officially enters the electric pickup truck market with the launch of a fully electric version of its popular D-Max model. The electric variant promises diesel-like performance and a respectable driving range, but its high price has stirred mixed reactions in the market.
Performance and Power Specs
The electric D-Max is equipped with dual electric motors producing a combined output of 188 horsepower and 325 Nm of torque. It features a full-time four-wheel-drive system, ensuring excellent traction across various terrains, and retains an off-road driving mode similar to that of the diesel version.
A 66.9 kWh battery pack powers the vehicle, enabling a driving range of approximately 263 kilometers (163 miles) according to the WLTP standard. This range is considered adequate for a mid-size pickup designed for heavy-duty practical use and carrying significant weight.
Design and Exterior
The electric D-Max keeps the classic well-known design of the model, with subtle updates including electric-specific badging, blue accents that highlight its eco-friendly nature, and the absence of a conventional exhaust system.
The charging port is cleverly positioned in the same location as the traditional fuel filler, maintaining a familiar appearance for users accustomed to the D-Max, facilitating ease of use without drastic changes to the exterior design.
Trim Levels and Variants
The electric pickup is available in two main trims: the eDL40 and the higher-end eV-Cross. Both trims offer cab configurations including extended cab and double cab to meet the varying needs of consumers. A range of colors is offered including white, metallic silver, grey, and black, with special color options for the luxurious V-Cross.
Practical Performance and Capabilities
The D-Max electric accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in about 10.1 seconds, with a top speed of roughly 130 km/h. It retains the ability to carry payloads exceeding one ton (1000 kg) and tow up to 3.5 tons (3500 kg), matching the capabilities of diesel-powered variants commonly used in commercial and utility applications.
Furthermore, it is capable of wading through water up to 600 mm deep and has a ground clearance of 210 mm, making it suitable for off-road conditions and diverse road types.
Charging and Battery Warranty
The battery supports fast charging at up to 50 kW, enabling a recharge from 20% to 80% state-of-charge in approximately one hour.
Isuzu offers an extensive warranty on the battery covering 8 years or 160,900 kilometers (100,000 miles), aiming to give buyers confidence in the longevity of their electric pickup.
Platform and Suspension
Built on the ladder frame platform shared with traditional D-Max models, the electric variant upgrades the rear suspension to a multi-link coil spring setup, replacing the leaf springs. This update improves ride comfort and overall vehicle dynamics.
Launch and Market Availability
The electric D-Max was officially unveiled at the 2025 Commercial Vehicle Show in the UK in April, with preorder sales commencing in the UK as of July 2025. Deliveries to customers are expected to begin in February 2026.
Isuzu plans to distribute the model across selected European markets, including Norway, reflecting a targeted approach to markets with growing demand for electric commercial vehicles.
Pricing and Market Reaction
Starting at approximately $80,800 USD, the electric D-Max commands a significantly higher price than the diesel version.
This steep price differential creates a notable barrier for many potential buyers, who may hesitate to switch to electric due to cost considerations, especially with rival manufacturers offering more competitively priced or hybrid alternatives.
A Step Toward a Sustainable Future, But Not Without Challenges
The Isuzu D-Max electric marks a significant milestone in the commercial vehicle sector’s shift towards clean energy, blending robust performance and ruggedness with zero tailpipe emissions.
However, the high cost remains the major challenge restricting wider adoption, especially amidst increasing competition in the EV and hybrid pickup segment across Europe and globally.
With continued advancements in charging infrastructure and government incentives, the Isuzu electric D-Max stands as a promising option for businesses and users seeking practical and sustainable vehicles in the near future.
