D-Max BEV to be launched

The all-new Isuzu D-Max BEV could be bound for New Zealand next year.

The Japanese manufacturer is planning to debut a concept of the dual-cab fully electric model at Bangkok International Motor Show before a production model is revealed ahead of its release in 2025.

It will initially be launched in select European markets, such as Norway, before landing in the UK, Australia and Thailand, although New Zealand has yet to be announced.

That said, NZ Autocar reports it has reached out to the local arm of Isuzu, which 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 with 40kW up front and the other at the rear boasting (90kW) to generating 130kW of combined power and 325Nm of torque. Driving-range figures have yet to be disclosed.

Top speed is low, rated at “over 130kph”, but its payload and towing capacity are on par with New Zealand’s most popular petrol and diesel-powered utes at 1,000kg and 3,500kg respectively.

As for looks, its design is fairly similar to the combustion-engined D-Max that got a facelift 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. Bangkok Motor Show opens on March 27.