Isuzu D-Max with electric powertrain technically possible: Report

Updated Jun 16, 2023 | Same topic: Automotive Industry Updates

But this comes with a few hurdles.

 

Despite making a name for producing diesel-powered nameplates, Isuzu is one of the automakers that continues to explore the use of electric powertrains on commercial vehicles. Now, the Isuzu D-Max could be next in line for electrification.

Isuzu D-Max front view

Isuzu D-Max

In a report by Drive when speaking with Isuzu executives, an all-electric iteration of the pickup truck is not currently in the works. But they acknowledged “it could be technically possible” to use the automaker’s electric technology on its future pickup models.

This report follows the unveiling of the new electric option for the N Series EV light-duty truck at the 2023 Brisbane Truck Show. Both the Isuzu N Series and D-Max use the brand’s iconic 3.0-liter turbodiesel mill, suggesting that the latter could also be reworked for an electric option.

If an all-electric Isuzu D-Max comes out in metal, it could make around 148 horsepower to 201 horsepower and 370 Nm of torque. These figures are based on the peak outputs the Japanese automaker claims.

Isuzu N Series front view

Isuzu N Series

However, fitting an electric powertrain into the pickup isn’t as easy as it sounds. One of the challenges is packaging as the batteries that are packaged in 20 kWh modules aren’t as slim as the size found in most electric vehicles (EVs). As such, the battery packs may need to be redesigned to fit inside the Isuzu D-Max.

Another is the comparatively low power figures as compared to diesel alternatives. This would affect the D-Max payload and towing capacities, which should be considered a drawback for those who would use the pickup as a workhorse vehicle.

Currently, the Isuzu pickup is powered by a 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX inline-4 turbodiesel engine capable of generating 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. It is also available with a smaller 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC turbodiesel engine good for 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque.

Isuzu D-Max rear view

The Isuzu D-Max EV is possible

Lastly, the price could be a factor as EVs tend to be more expensive than internal combustion engine (ICE) alternatives.

See the latest car developments at Philkotse.com.

Know more about Isuzu D-Max 2024

Isuzu D-Max

The Isuzu D-Max 2024 is a 5-seater pickup truck that is available in several variants with various options for a 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrain. Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) is offering this truck at a price that ranges from Php 938,000 to Php 1,945,000. There are two engine options powering the D-Max. One is a 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC inline-4 turbodiesel engine that makes 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, while the other is a 3.0-liter 4JJ3-TCX inline-4 turbodiesel engine that delivers 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. Either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission can be paired to the said engines.

In terms of dimensions, the D-Max spans 5,277 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height. It boasts a ground clearance rated at 240 mm, as well as a wheelbase of 3,125 mm. Some of the competitors of the Isuzu pickup truck in the Philippines are the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara, and Mazda BT-50.

>>> New and used Isuzu D-Max 2024 for sale in the Philippines

Isuzu D-Max Launch

Isuzu Philippines launched the new D-Max in March 2021. The brand offers the third-generation D-Max with a couple of engine and transmission options. 

In April 2023, Isuzu PH then brought in the facelifted model that carries a whole host of exterior changes. 

As of now, the Isuzu D-Max 2024 Philippines is available in up to 12 variants.

Isuzu D-max Exterior

The facelifted 2024 Isuzu D-max features an all-new exterior design that now comes with a more aggressive and bolder appeal. The D-Max also retains its angular look which adds to the pickup truck’s overall muscular demeanor. 

The top-spec 2024 D-Max LS-E variant gets a pair of sharp-looking LED headlights that are integrated with U-shaped daytime running lights. The D-Max’s grille was restyled, and it now comes in a two-tone black-colored finish, which allows the truck to have a more beefed-up appearance as compared to the older version. Lastly, the D-Max’s Philippines angular bumper comes with LED fog lamps.

Other new bits added to the 2024 model include grey-colored over-fenders, cargo extenders, and front bumper guards. It likewise gets a new set of 18-inch alloy wheels sporting a new design.

Isuzu D-max Interior

Inside, the 2024 Isuzu D-Max retains a refined more premium-looking than the old model. This is specifically seen in the top LS-E variant of the D-Max that comes with a two-tone interior theme of black and brown.

It also gets leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster display. You can also see brown accents on the door panels, which gives the cabin a premium-looking appeal. Right at the center of the dashboard, you’ll see a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. Placed below it are tactile buttons for air climate control.

Technology & Safety Features

The 2024 Isuzu D-Max is equipped with a boatload of tech and safety features. First up, the 10.1-inch touchscreen comes with Apple CarPlay and Android compatibility. It also has a built-in navigation system. The said features are standard in almost all of the variants of the 2021 D-Max except for the Single Cab and LT variants. 

In terms of safety, the top-spec 2024 D-Max trim is equipped with a total of seven airbags while the rest of the variants gets two. The D-Max LT, LS, LS-A, and LS-E get an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. On the other hand, it is only the LS, LS-A, and LS-E variants that feature electronic stability control, traction control, hill start assist, and hill descent control. 

The top-spec D-Max Philippines is the only variant equipped with the Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS), a tech that’s similar to Subaru’s EyeSight.

Platform & Chassis

The Isuzu D-Max comes with a double-wishbone suspension for the front and a leaf spring on the rear. In terms of braking power, the D-Max gets a ventilated disc for the front while a drum brake is on the rear.

Engine & Drivetrain

The brand offers the third-generation D-Max with a couple of engine and transmission options. The first option is a 1.9L turbo diesel that produces 148 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. For car buyers who are looking for more power, they can opt for the bigger mill, which is the 3.0L engine that pumps out 187 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. These two engines are equipped with the brand’s BluePower technology for Euro 4 compliance and better fuel efficiency. Both engines can be paired with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.

Available colors for the Isuzu D-Max Philippines are Valencia Orange, Splash White, Sapphire Blue, Onyx Black, Red Spinel, Galena Gray, and Mercury Silver.

The competition in the pickup truck segment in the Philippines is tight. But in terms of power, the Isuzu D-Max hasn't reached the 500 Club just yet unlike the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. Regardless, the D-Max offers top-notch reliability and durability.

Isuzu D-Max 2024 Price List

Let's check out the Isuzu D-Max 2024 price in September in the Philippines.

Variants  Price
Isuzu D-MAX RZ4E Single Cab 4x2 MT ₱938,000
Isuzu D-MAX RZ4E 4x2 LT MT ₱1,048,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 Single Cab 4x4 MT ₱1,178,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LT MT ₱1,299,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A MT ₱1,400,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A MT Plus ₱1,440,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A AT ₱1,470,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-A AT Plus ₱1,510,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS-E AT ₱1,695,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LS-A MT ₱1,710,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LS-A MT Plus ₱1,750,000
Isuzu D-MAX 3.0 4x4 LS-E AT ₱1,945,000

Isuzu D-Max Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Reliability and durability are expected
  • Impressive 1.9-liter engine
  • Rugged exterior design
  • New wheels are better-looking compared to the old model's.

Cons

  • Use of leaf spring can be an issue for some

Isuzu D-Max FAQs

1. How much is the Isuzu D-Max 2024 in the Philippines?

The price of Isuzu D-Max ranges from 938,000 Php for entry-level to 1,945,000 Php for top-of-the-line.

2. What is the ground clearance of the new Isuzu D-Max?

The ground clearance of the new Isuzu D-Max is 240mm.

3. Is Isuzu D-Max a Pickup truck?

Yes, D-Max is a Pickup truck.

4. Does Isuzu D-Max have a reverse camera?

Yes, it does. With the reverse camera, you can see what is behind the car on the screen.

5. What is the Wheelbase of Isuzu D-Max Philippines?

Wheelbase of D-Max is 3,125 mm.

 

₱ 917,000 - ₱ 1,905,000

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Rex Sanchez

Rex Sanchez

Author

Rex Sanchez grew up in Saudi Arabia where he saw and got into the automotive scene. He started his career for an aviation company in the said region, writing about turbines and rotors which are later distributed for educational purposes. And now, he joined Philkotse.com as a staff writer. Currently, he is the youngest on the team and is more than ready to grow in the field.

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