Isuzu teases fully electric D-Max ute, likely bound for NZ

New Zealand might be due for another electric ute next year, with the new Isuzu D-Max BEV being teased and likely bound for New Zealand.

The Japanese manufacturer plans to debut a concept of the dual-cab EV at the Bangkok International Motor Show later this month before a production model is revealed ahead of its release in 2025.

It’ll initially be launched in select European markets like Norway before landing in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Thailand, but there was no mention of a New Zealand launch. However, we reached out to the local arm of Isuzu who said we can expect to hear word of its availability soon.

The production electric D-Max will feature a 66.9kWh lithium-ion battery and two electric motors, one up front (40kW) and the other at the rear (90kW), generating a combined 130kW and 325Nm of torque. Driving range figures have yet to be disclosed.

Top speed is low, rated at “over 130km/h”, but its payload and towing capacity are on par with New Zealand’s most popular petrol and diesel-powered utes at 1000kg and 3500kg respectively.

As for looks, its design is fairly similar to the combustion D-Max that was facelifted late last year, but the EV introduces a few subtle changes such as a closed-off front grille and blue highlights. The interior has yet to be unveiled.

Isuzu will fully reveal the electric D-Max at the Bangkok International Motor Show, held from March 27 to April 7, 2024.