The new full-electric Isuzu D-Max has debuted in the UK after its unveiling at the Commercial Vehicle Show at Birmingham early in 2025. It's the first of its type since the Japanese brand launched the Isuzu KB, also known as the Isuzu Faster in some markets, in 1972.
It's also produced in South Africa at the brand’s Gqeberha assembly plant and ranked third most popular bakkie in the local market.
The electric D-Max launches with a pair of eDL40 trims in extended and double cab models and luxury V-Cross double cab trim. The first fully electric bakkie in Europe is built for work, offering a 1-tonne payload, 3,500kg towing capacity and permanent four-wheel drive. All models feature a dual motor system powered by a 66.9kWh battery.
Pricing is the nub
They are quite expensive. South Africa's most expensive bakkie is just below the R1.3m mark, while the entry-level D-Max eDL40 extended cab has been launched in the UK with a £59,995 (R1,427,903 excl) price tag.
For this amount, takers get the full-time 4x4 system, chrome styling, 8" infotainment and 7" driver information display, heated front seats, bi-LED headlights, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors, rough terrain mode and a six-speaker premium sound.
The double cab sDL40 commands £60,995 (R1,452,061 excl) with similar specification and colour options including Splash white, Mercury silver, Obsidian grey, Onyx black and Biarritz blue.
The D-Max eV-Cross that costs £62,495 (R1,488,370) adds 9" infotainment, an auto dimming rear view mirror, eight-speaker sound system and exclusive availability of Dolomite white paint.
“There’s nothing else like it in the market today that combines zero-emission driving with full commercial capability and Isuzu’s legendary toughness. The D-Max EV offers true value and a sustainable solution for fleets and professionals,” said Neil Scott, national sales manager at Isuzu UK.
With the Isuzu D-Max range being assembled in South Africa, we asked CEO Billy Tom if there is a consideration to market the new debutant in this country, and more so with the outlook for local assembly in future-proofing the business?
Tom confirmed he is considering bringing the new model to South Africa but as completely built units as he has enough scale. Pricing, profitability and residual value also need to be studied before making a decision, but he is more keen on a hybrid for this market.
Tom believes the African market has a long way to go in adopting electric bakkies, saying they will continue to build D-Max models with internal combustion engines for the continent in the meantime.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.