An electric version of the Isuzu D-Max ute has been revealed and locked in for Australia.
Isuzu’s ute division today unveiled the D-Max EV (electric vehicle) concept before its public debut at the Bangkok motor show in the coming weeks, showing off a prototype of the dual-cab with electric rather than turbo-diesel power.
The brand also confirmed prior speculation that the electric D-Max will first go on sale in Norway in 2025, before rolling out in right-hand drive markets such as Australia, the UK and its home market of Thailand – though a more detailed timeline has not been announced.
“At this point in time, we are unable to comment on specifics relating to future model plans,” an Isuzu Ute Australia (IUA) spokesperson told CarExpert.
“That said, as part of our due diligence, IUA will continue to monitor the local market requirements including the reception of hybrid and EVs, and work with the factory to provide a product mix to meet Australian consumer needs.”
The Isuzu D-Max EV concept is powered by dual electric motors – a 40kW/108Nm unit on the front axle, and 90kW/217Nm motor on the rear – combined outputs of 130kW and 325Nm.
Its 66.9kWh battery is shared with an electric version of the N Series light-duty truck announced last year.
While key figures are limited for now, Isuzu claims its battery-powered dual-cab will be capable of carrying a payload of 1000kg, and have a braked towing capacity of 3500kg – on par with the existing turbo-diesel version.
Isuzu is yet to announce projected driving range figures for the electric D-Max.
These photos – shared online by Thai publication Auto.co.th – show the D-Max’s design remains largely unchanged between electric and diesel power, though a sleeker nose is expected to be adopted to reduce unnecessary drag.
The Isuzu D-Max EV concept’s unveiling comes less than a fortnight after the brand’s Australian division publicly pushed back against the Federal Government’s proposed New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES).
Isuzu warned some vehicle brands with a largely SUV and ute-based product range that “cannot increase vehicle pricing to cover the penalties may be left with no option but to exit the Australian market.”
At present, Isuzu only sells turbo-diesel versions of the D-Max ute and MU-X SUV in Australia.
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