2026 Isuzu D-Max EV shown and detailed

The 2026 Isuzu D-Max EV has finally made its world debut and already been confirmed for the Australian market.

Set to be offered globally in four variants, the D-Max EV immediately one-ups the LDV eT60 with full-time 4x4 as well as other monocoque electric utes like the Geely Radar RD6 with a proper 1000kg-plus payload.

Using the same ladder-frame chassis as the internal combustion D-Max, the D-Max EV is powered by a 140kW/325Nm dual-motor powertrain that draws current from a 66.9kWh lithium-ion battery, a combination that yields a maximum WLTP range of just 263km – the eT60 is good for up to 330km.

Zero-100km/h takes a claimed 10.1 seconds while the top speed is north of 130km/h, but the name of the D-Max game is utility and capability as opposed to outright performance.

The D-Max EV stands 210mm off the ground on independent front and De-Dion rear suspension, has a payload of more than 1000kg, can tow up to 3500kg (braked) and ford 600mm of water.

Its battery pack can be recharged using both DC (50kW) and AC (11kW) power, the former providing a 20-80 per cent top-up in 60 minutes and the latter a full charge (0-100%) in 10 hours.

The powertrain and capabilities are shared across all four D-Max EV variants which in turn span two trim levels, each with the choice of extended or double cab body styles.

The lesser of the two thus far unnamed trims comes with chrome exterior trim, an 8.0-inch infotainment system, 7.0-inch driver’s 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 sound system – broadly similar to our LS-U+.

Above that is an X-Terrain equivalent sporting dark grey design cues, a bigger 9.0-inch infotainment screen, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an eight-speaker premium sound system for the double cab version – the extended cab gets six speakers.

Production of the D-Max EV will start later this year for left-hook European markets before the right-hand drive versions head to the UK in early 2026.

Isuzu Ute Australia confirmed last year an electric D-Max would be headed Down Under at some stage but stopped short both then and now of announcing exactly when.

“We are currently unable to comment on specifics relating to future model plans,” a company spokesperson said.

“That said, as part of our due diligence, IUA will continue to monitor the local needs and evaluate the reception of BEVs locally, and work with the factory to provide a product mix to meet Australian consumer needs … we have no further information to share at this point in time.”

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