The new and 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 kind since the Japanese brand launched the Isuzu KB, also known as the Isuzu Faster in some markets, back in 1972.
It's also produced in here in SA 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 66.9 kWh battery.
Pricing is the nub
They are quite expensive. SA’s most expensive bakkie 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, eight-inch infotainment and seven-inch 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 ways 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 a nine-inch 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 alike,” says Neil Scott, national sales manager at Isuzu UK.
With the Isuzu D-Max range being assembled in SA, we asked CEO Billy Tom if there is a consideration to market the new debutant in this market, and more so with the outlook for local assembly in future-proofing the business?
Tom confirms he is considering bringing the new model to SA but as completely built units (CBU) as he has enough scale. The head of the company also mentions that pricing, profitability and residual value also needs to be well studied before making such a decision, but that he is really more keen on a hybrid for this market.
Tom says he believes the African market still has a long way to go in adopting electric bakkies and that they will continue to build D-Max models with internal combustion engines for the continent in 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.