Isuzu D-MAX EV Enters Production – Will It Battle the JAC T9 EV in Malaysia?
Isuzu Motors has officially commenced production of its first fully electric pickup truck—the Isuzu D-MAX EV—at its Thai facility, marking a major milestone in the company’s push toward carbon-neutral mobility. First unveiled as a prototype at the 2023 Bangkok International Motor Show, the production version is now rolling off the line, with left-hand-drive models bound for Europe starting in Q3 2025.
Of particular interest to ASEAN markets is the announcement that right-hand-drive versions will begin production by the end of 2025, with the UK confirmed as a launch market in 2026. Isuzu has stated that further rollouts will depend on “market needs”—a phrase that raises a tantalising question: Will the D-MAX EV make its way to Malaysia?
If it does, it would enter a growing segment currently led by the JAC T9 EV—an electric 1-tonne pickup launched earlier in Malaysia and built on a similar workhorse platform. Both trucks target commercial and lifestyle users alike, but the Isuzu D-MAX EV brings the brand’s proven durability into the EV era.
The D-MAX EV is powered by twin e-Axles—a newly developed full-time 4WD system—with a 140 kW output and 325 Nm of torque. It supports a towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a payload of 1,010 kg, matching traditional diesel rivals. Battery capacity stands at 66.9 kWh, offering up to 263 km WLTP range (or 361 km in city mode). Charging is handled via 11 kW AC (10 hours for full charge) or 50 kW DC (1 hour from 20–80%).
Dimensions are in line with conventional 1-tonne pickups, with a total length of 5,280 mm, width of 1,870 mm, and height of 1,810 mm. The D-MAX EV’s 6.1-meter turning radius and robust chassis make it a serious contender for rugged use, even in rural or semi-urban settings.
Given its Thai production base and Isuzu’s popularity in Malaysia, local launch prospects are strong—especially with commercial fleets and government-linked projects pushing for electrification. The showdown between the Isuzu D-MAX EV and JAC T9 EV could soon be a reality on Malaysian roads.
For now, Malaysians will be watching closely as the D-MAX EV rolls out globally. The only question left: Will Isuzu Malaysia bring it here to fight?
