Passenger vehicles may not be Isuzu’s strongest suit but when it comes to trucks, especially pickup trucks, these guys ain’t no small fry. These guys have their trucks rolling all over the world. Speaking of which, the Japanese automaker is finally taking a dip in the electric vehicle market.
Isuzu Motors Limited is venturing into the electric vehicle market unveiling its first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), the Isuzu D-Max BEV. Set to debut at the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in 2024 (March 27 to April 07, 2024), this innovative pick-up truck marries Isuzu’s renowned rugged performance with the eco-friendliness of electric propulsion.
The D-Max BEV features a 1-tonne payload, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, full-time 4WD with e-Axles, a 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, 130 kW (174 HP) maximum output, 325 Nm (about 240 lb-ft) of torque and speeds over 130 km/h (81mph), promising exceptional performance across various terrains.
In case anyone’s wondering, the electrified D-Max is rear-biased with the rear motor having 90 kW max output and 217 Nm (160 lb-ft) of torque and the front motor, 40 kW and 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque.
Aimed at promoting sustainability, Isuzu plans to launch the D-Max BEV in select European markets by 2025, with potential expansion to the UK, Australia, Thailand, and more, depending on EV infrastructure development. That is pretty much what we know for now.
Images: Isuzu [JP].