In a significant stride towards sustainable mobility, Isuzu Motors Limited is set to debut its maiden battery electric vehicle (BEV), the D-MAX one-ton pickup truck, at the forthcoming 45th Bangkok International Motor Show. Scheduled to run from March 27 to April 7 in Bangkok, Thailand, this unveiling marks a pivotal moment for Isuzu as it ventures into the realm of electrification.
Led by President and COO Shinsuke Minami, Isuzu is poised to present the D-MAX BEV, designed to cater to a diverse array of commercial and passenger vehicle requirements while upholding the robust performance standards synonymous with pickup trucks. This pioneering vehicle integrates a full-time 4WD system, featuring newly developed e-Axles in both front and rear configurations, ensuring superior performance on rugged terrains and delivering the smooth, linear acceleration characteristic of BEVs. Moreover, noise and vibration are minimized, enhancing the overall driving experience.
The D-MAX BEV boasts impressive specifications, including a full-time 4×4 drive system for enhanced traction and control. It is powered by a lithium-ion battery with a substantial capacity of 66.9 kWh, providing ample energy for extended journeys. With a maximum output of 174 horsepower, distributed between the front and rear motors (54 hp and 120 hp, respectively), its maximum torque of 325 Nm, split between the front (108 Nm) and rear (217 Nm) motors, ensures strong acceleration and towing capabilities. The vehicle can achieve speeds exceeding 130 km/h while accommodating a payload of up to 1,000 kg and towing capacities of up to 3.5 tons, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks and terrains.
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Recognizing the multifaceted utility of pickup trucks across various applications, the D-MAX BEV stands as a viable alternative power source. Isuzu plans to initially launch the vehicle in select mainland European markets, commencing with Norway in 2025. Subsequent rollouts are earmarked for the UK, Australia, Thailand, and other regions, contingent upon market demand and the evolution of EV charging infrastructure.
The unveiling of the D-MAX BEV underscores Isuzu’s unwavering commitment to advancing carbon-neutral (CN) mobility solutions, aligning with its broader mission to enhance lives through the development of environmentally sustainable vehicles.
Judging by Isuzu’s plans to launch the D-MAX BEV worldwide and the growing EV sales and infrastructure here in the Philippines, we could expect it to come here officially sometime in the future.