Isuzu introduced its first battery-powered electric vehicle in the D-Max midsize pickup truck, retaining the payload and towing functions of the turbodiesel versions.
A pre-production prototype of the Isuzu D-Max BEV will make its first public appearance on March 27 at the Bangkok International Motor Show in Thailand, ahead of its European market launch planned for 2025. Isuzu will also unveil a few other D-Max Prototypes with a mild hybrid diesel engine, it’s unclear if it will make it to production.
The zero-emission edition of the newly revamped pickup sits on the same ladder-like chassis, but swaps out the turbodiesel for a “permanent 4WD formula with newly evolved front and rear axles. “The power comes from a 66. 9 kWh lithium-ion battery.
The front electric motor produces 53 hp (40 kW / 54 hp) and 108 Nm (80 lb-ft), while the rear electric motor produces 121 hp (90 kW / 122 hp) and 217 Nm (160 lb-ft). ft). Combined output is 174 hp (130 kW / 177 hp) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque, meaning the BEV is stronger than the base 1. 9-liter diesel.
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The company did not reveal the variety of the electric truck, but it showed that it matches the 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) payload and 3,500 kg (7,716 lb) towing capacity of existing diesel versions. 130 km/h (81 mph), with diversity.
Visually, the Isuzu D-Max BEV adopts a redesigned nose with a covered grille for increased aerodynamics and blue accents. The rest of the double-cab frame is shared with the ICE-powered D-Max, there’s a new set of six spokes. “EV Concept” wheels and badges on the profile. It remains to be seen if the production edition will be different from this prototype.
Isuzu says the D-Max BEV will launch in “select markets in continental Europe, such as Norway” in 2025. However, the electric pickup will also be launched in the UK, Australia, Thailand and other countries, depending on the “needs of the market”. the maturity of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. “
A mild hybrid diesel could extend the range even further
In addition to the all-electric edition, Isuzu also unveiled the D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV prototype. This is supplied with an electrified edition of the 1. 9-litre turbodiesel with a 48V system. More highlights will be announced at a later date. date, adding specifications for the mild-hybrid truck and long-term production plans.
Isuzu D-Max rivals like Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger recently won hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, respectively, but lately neither offers a BEV powertrain option.