Introduction: Isuzu is confidently entering the world of electric pickup trucks, unveiling the production version of its all-electric D-Max. This pickup, which will hit European roads in early 2026, offers a zero-emission alternative without sacrificing the practicality and durability for which the D-Max is known. Despite the company's claim that it is "Europe's first production electric pickup truck offering full commercial capability," its price tag is shocking, raising questions about its market acceptance.
Isuzu D-Max EV: Familiar Design, Powerful Electric Heart
The D-Max EV visually adheres to the familiar design of its internal combustion engine counterparts, with minimal exterior changes limited mostly to electric-specific badging, blue accents, and the absence of exhaust pipes. The charging port has been hidden in the same location as the fuel cap to maintain a familiar design.
Trim and Color Options: The electric pickup truck offers two highly equipped trim levels (eDL40 and eV-Cross), with a choice of Extended Cab and Double Cab body styles. The color palette includes standard Splash White, optional Mercury Silver Metallic, Obsidian Grey Mica, Onyx Black Mica, and Biarritz Blue Metallic, with Dolomite White Pearl exclusive to the top-of-the-range V-Cross trim.
Dual Electric Motors and Unrivaled Off-Road Capability
The D-Max EV is powered by dual electric motors that generate a combined output of 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) and 325 Nm (240 lb-ft) of torque. This means it offers 27 hp (20 kW) more power than the diesel version, although it loses 35 Nm (26 lb-ft) of torque.
Permanent All-Wheel Drive: Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a permanent all-wheel drive system, with a Rough Terrain Mode feature inherited from the diesel model.
Powerful Performance: Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 10.1 seconds and a top speed of just over 129 km/h (80 mph).
True Commercial Capability: Most importantly for truck buyers, the D-Max Electric maintains serious work capabilities, boasting a payload of over 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) and a towing capacity of 3.5 tons (7,716 lb), matching the capabilities of a mid-size diesel pickup.
Excellent Off-Road Capability: Off-road performance figures are also strong, with a wading depth of 600 mm (23.6 in) and a ground clearance of 210 mm (8.3 in).
Battery and Charging: Sufficient Range for Commercial Use
The 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery provides a WLTP-rated range of 263 km (163 miles). This may seem modest compared to smaller electric vehicles, but it's in line with expectations for a mid-size pickup truck carrying additional weight and size.
Fast Charging: Fast charging with up to 50 kW DC allows the battery to be charged from 20% to 80% in about one hour.
Battery Warranty: Isuzu backs the battery with an 8-year or 100,000-mile (160,900 km) warranty.
The all-electric truck is based on a modified version of the ladder frame chassis found in the regular Isuzu D-Max. However, the rear suspension features a De-Dion setup instead of leaf springs, contributing to a smoother and more comfortable ride.
Price and Availability: A Major Challenge in the European Market
The D-Max EV was unveiled globally at the Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 in Birmingham, UK, on April 29. Pre-orders in the UK began on July 21, and first deliveries are expected to begin in February 2026.
Price Challenge: The D-Max EV starts at £59,995 (US$80,800) before VAT, significantly higher than the base diesel D-Max price of £27,755 (US$37,400). In direct comparison with the same grades, the electric eDL40 and eV-Cross are £24,240 (US$32,700) more expensive than their diesel counterparts. Interestingly, the heavily modified AT35 model from Arctic Trucks comes in at a lower price than the electric version.
In addition to the UK, Isuzu has confirmed that the D-Max EV will also be available in select European markets, including Norway.
