Isuzu has officially entered the electric ute race with the Isuzu D-Max EV, an all-electric version of its no-nonsense workhorse designed for tradies, fleets, and off-roaders. Revealed at the UK’s 2025 Commercial Vehicle Show, this isn’t just a concept—it’s a production-ready model confirmed for Australia by 2026.
While the electric versions of the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger are yet to make their production-spec debut, Isuzu is charging ahead. But does the Isuzu D-Max EV have what it takes to win over Aussie buyers? Let’s break it down.
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The good: Built for work, not just show
Serious towing & payload
- 3,500kg towing and 1-tonne payload match diesel rivals, proving it’s not just a green novelty.
- Full-time 4WD with dual electric motors ensures traction in tough conditions.
Proper off-road credentials
- 210mm ground clearance and 600mm wading depth—same as the diesel Isuzu D-Max.
- Coil springs (replacing leaf springs) improve ride comfort without sacrificing load capacity.
Familiar, functional design
- No radical “EV styling”—just a classic ute look, which will appeal to traditional buyers.
The concerns: Range, charging & real-world use
Limited range (263km WLTP)
- Fine for daily worksite runs, but towing or heavy loads will slash this further.
- Long-distance travellers may find it restrictive compared to diesel or upcoming electric rivals (e.g., Ford Ranger EV).
Slow charging by today’s standards
- 50kW fast charging (20-80% in 1 hour) is behind newer EVs with 150-350kW speeds.
- 10-hour home charging (on 11kW) is acceptable but not groundbreaking.
Heavy & not exactly quick
- At 2,350kg, it’s 300kg+ heavier than a diesel D-Max.
- 0-100km/h in 10.1s won’t thrill performance seekers.
The big question: Price & competition
Isuzu has yet to reveal local specifications or pricing for the Isuzu D-Max EV, and overseas pricing details remain under wraps as well. Its success in Australia could hinge on how competitively it’s priced—if it sits too close to the diesel variants, buyers may struggle to see the value in making the switch. With electric versions of the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger expected to arrive soon, potentially offering longer range and more advanced tech, the Isuzu D-Max EV will need to strike the right balance between capability and cost to stay ahead.
Should you wait for it?
The Isuzu D-Max EV is a practical, no-frills electric ute that stays true to Isuzu’s tough reputation. It’s ideal for:
- Urban tradies with short commutes.
- Fleet operators targeting emissions compliance.
- Isuzu loyalists ready to go electric.
But if you need long-range towing or faster charging, waiting for Toyota/Ford’s entries might be wise. Or better yet, go hybrid and be free of range anxiety altogether.
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