Isuzu D-Max EV debuts in Europe
Words by NZ Autocar magazine
Isuzu has unveiled the Isuzu D-Max EV at the 2025 Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham. This is billed as Europe’s first fully electric pick-up truck designed with full commercial capabilities.
The Isuzu D-Max EV is built on the foundation of the conventional D-Max but gains an electric drivetrain. This fully electric version delivers a full-time 4×4 system, a payload capacity of over one tonne and a maximum braked towing limit of 3.5 tonnes. It’s the first production EV pick-up in Europe to achieve such feats apparently.
Underneath is a 66.9kWh lithium-ion battery powering dual electric motors, delivering a combined 140kW (43kW front, 97kW rear) and 325Nm of torque. With a WLTP range of 263km and a 0–100km/h sprint time of just over 10 seconds, Isuzu reckons the D-Max EV offers a blend of real-world performance and everyday practicality. A top speed of more than 130km/h ensures it’s capable on highways.
Off-road credentials include 600mm water wading depth, 210mm of ground clearance, and approach and departure angles of 30.5° and 24.2°, respectively. A new De-Dion rear suspension system replaces traditional leaf springs which should enhance ride comfort and handling while contributing to a quieter cabin experience. Isuzu claims a 10 per cent reduction in noise and vibration during full acceleration.
The Isuzu D-Max EV has been engineered with professional users in mind. It maintains its ladder chassis and integrates a Rough Terrain Mode for extreme conditions, and features an updated suite of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) for improved safety.
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The electric D-Max gets a redesigned infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, all accessed via a crisp touchscreen display. Multi-level regenerative braking and Eco Mode help extend range, while the EV’s battery is backed by an 8-year or 160,000-km warranty in Europe.
Yasuhiro Takeuchi, Executive Vice President of Isuzu Motors International Operations (Thailand), said during the reveal, “We have engineered a fully electric pick-up that truly performs in real-world working environments, offering the same towing, payload, and all-terrain capability customers expect from the D-Max. This is a new chapter in the legacy of Isuzu innovation and dependability.”
The Isuzu D-Max EV is Set to go on sale in Europe by early 2026.
Isuzu D-Max EV specifications
| Powertrain | |
| Drive system | Full-time 4×4 |
| Electric motor | Dual-motor system |
| Total power output | 140 kW (43 kW front, 97 kW rear) |
| Torque | 325Nm (108 Nm front, 217 Nm rear) |
| Max speed | Over 80 mph |
| Acceleration (0-62mph) | 10.1 seconds |
| Eco mode | Available for improved range |
| Regeneration levels | 4 selectable levels |
| Capability | |
| Maximum payload | Over 1,000 kg |
| Maximum towing capacity | Maximum 3.5 tonnes |
| 4×4 angles | 30.5° approach, 24.2° departure |
| Ground clearance | 210mm |
| Wading depth | 600mm |
| Battery | |
| Battery type | Lithium-ion |
| Battery capacity | 66.9 kWh |
| Vehicle range (WLTP) | 263 km |
| Charging (AC) | Max 11 kW – 10 hrs (0–100%) |
| Charging (DC) | Max 50 kW – 1 hr (20–80%) |
| Battery warranty | 8 years / 100,000 miles |
| Dimensions | |
| Total length | 5,280mm |
| Total width | 1,870mm |
| Total height | 1,790mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,125mm |
| Tread (front/rear) | 1,570mm |
| Minimum turning radius | 6.1m |
| Tyres | 265/60R18 |
| Kerb weight | 2,350kg |
Isuzu D-Max Diesel vs Isuzu D-Max EV
| Feature | Isuzu D-Max Diesel | Isuzu D-Max EV |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | 1.9L or 3.0L turbo diesel engine | Dual electric motors (front + rear) |
| Power Output | Up to 140 kW (3.0L engine) | 140 kW combined (43 kW front / 97 kW rear) |
| Torque | Up to 450 Nm | 325 Nm (108 Nm front / 217 Nm rear) |
| Drivetrain | Part-time 4×4 / 2WD (model dependent) | Full-time 4×4 |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual / automatic | Single-speed reduction gear |
| Acceleration (0–100km/h) | Approx. 12 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | ~180 km/h (model dependent) | 130+ km/h (80+ mph) |
| Battery / Fuel | Diesel | 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery |
| Driving Range | 800–1,000+ km (diesel tank) | 263 km WLTP |
| Towing Capacity | 3.5 tonnes (braked) | 3.5 tonnes (braked) |
| Payload Capacity | Over 1 tonne | Over 1 tonne |
| Suspension | Leaf spring rear suspension | De-Dion rear suspension |
| Infotainment | Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | New high-res display with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Noise & Vibration | Diesel engine noise present | ~10% reduction in cabin NVH under acceleration |
| Off-Road Capability | High – selectable 4×4, locking diff (some trims) | High – full-time 4×4, Rough Terrain Mode |
| Emissions | CO₂ and NOx emissions (Euro 6 compliant) | Zero tailpipe emissions |
| Warranty | Typically 5 years / 150,000 km (market dependent) | 8 years / 100,000 miles (battery warranty) |
| Availability | Available now globally | Europe: Early 2026 |
