Isuzu starts mass producing its first all-electric pickup truck

The Verge - Apr 29th, 2025
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Isuzu has embarked on the mass production of its all-electric mid-sized D-Max pickup truck in Thailand, marking a significant shift towards electrification in the automotive industry. The new D-Max EV is designed with a dual-motor four-wheel-drive system, generating 140kW of power, which Isuzu claims can match the performance of its diesel counterparts. Despite having a slightly lower payload capacity, the D-Max EV maintains an impressive towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, similar to the diesel model. The electric truck boasts a range of up to 163 miles per charge, extendable to 224 miles in city driving conditions, setting a new standard for performance and efficiency in electric pickups.

The introduction of the D-Max EV is set to impact the European market significantly, where it will compete with established models like Ford's best-selling Ranger. Isuzu's strategic decision to launch in left-hand drive European countries by the third quarter and a planned right-hand drive version for the UK by 2026 highlights their commitment to global expansion. Although pricing details are yet to be announced, the existing diesel model is priced at approximately $41,600. This launch underscores a growing trend towards sustainable transportation solutions and Isuzu's proactive approach in adapting to changing market needs, although there is currently no indication of a US release.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a largely accurate and clear overview of Isuzu's new D-Max EV, effectively highlighting its features and market plans. While it is timely and addresses a topic of public interest, the article would benefit from greater source diversity and transparency in its claims. The balance is maintained through neutral reporting, but the inclusion of broader perspectives would enhance depth. The impact and engagement are moderate, with potential for increased reader interest through interactive elements or expert insights. Overall, the article serves as an informative piece but could improve in areas like source quality and transparency to strengthen its reliability and reader engagement.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story is largely accurate in its claims about Isuzu's D-Max EV, with most key details supported by available sources. The claim about mass production in Thailand is confirmed, as well as the truck's towing capacity matching the diesel model's. However, there are minor discrepancies, such as the payload capacity being slightly different from the concept specifications. Additionally, the power output of 140kW is not directly confirmed, with the concept version showing a slightly lower output. The range estimates based on the WLTP standard require further verification, as these figures are not explicitly confirmed in the sources. Overall, the story presents a truthful account but could benefit from more precise data on certain technical specifications.

7
Balance

The article maintains a neutral tone, focusing on the technical and market aspects of the Isuzu D-Max EV without showing favoritism toward the brand or its competitors. It provides a direct comparison with the Ford Ranger, which is informative but lacks a broader context of how the D-Max EV fits into the overall electric vehicle market. While the article does not exhibit overt bias, it could include perspectives from industry analysts or consumer advocates to provide a more rounded view of the vehicle's impact and competitiveness.

8
Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear language to convey information about the D-Max EV. It logically presents details about the vehicle's production, specifications, and market plans. The comparisons with the Ford Ranger are straightforward, aiding reader comprehension. However, some technical terms, like 'WLTP standard,' could be briefly explained to enhance understanding for readers unfamiliar with automotive terminology.

6
Source quality

The article references Electrek as a source, which is a reputable publication for electric vehicle news. However, it lacks a broader range of sources to corroborate its claims, such as direct statements from Isuzu or independent automotive experts. The reliance on a single secondary source limits the depth of authority and reliability. Including more diverse sources would enhance the credibility and robustness of the reporting.

5
Transparency

The article provides some context about the D-Max EV's features and market positioning but does not offer detailed explanations of how claims were verified or the methodology behind the performance comparisons. There is a lack of transparency regarding potential conflicts of interest or the basis for specific claims, such as the range and power output. Greater disclosure of how information was obtained and any potential biases would improve transparency.

Sources

  1. https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/isuzu-begins-production-of-d-max-ev-pickup-truck-in-thailand/
  2. https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/world-first-reveal-the-new-isuzu-d-max-ev-unveiled-at-commercial-vehicle-show-2025/
  3. https://theevreport.com/isuzu-unveils-electric-d-max-pickup
  4. https://www.autocarpro.in/news-international/isuzu-unveils-d-max-ev-at-2025-commercial-vehicle-show-126165
  5. https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/electric-vehicles/isuzu-d-max-bev-concept-showcased-at-auto-expo-2025-heres-how-much-range-it-gets-41737098541371.html