Isuzu UK has today celebrated a major milestone with the announcement that the all-new Isuzu D-Max EV has won the coveted ‘One to Watch’ award at the What Van? Awards 2026, recognising it as the first fully electric pick-up to deliver uncompromised commercial capability in the UK.
Set to arrive in early 2026, the D-Max EV builds on Isuzu’s reputation for rugged durability and work-ready performance, combining the toughness of the multi-award-winning D-Max platform with an electric drivetrain. The result is a vehicle that offers full-time four-wheel drive, a 3.5-tonne towing capacity, and a payload exceeding one tonne, making it Europe’s first production electric pick-up to deliver genuine, no-compromise commercial performance.
James Dallas, Editor at What Van? and one of the awards’ judges, said:
“The pickup sector is crying out for a competent electric 4×4 workhorse and the Isuzu D-Max EV is pioneering the way and looks like it could fit the bill.”
Electric Power Meets Commercial Muscle
The D-Max EV features a dual-motor system powered by a 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery, producing a combined output of 140 kW—split 43 kW front and 97 kW rear—and total torque of 325 Nm. This enables the pick-up to accelerate from 0–62 mph in just 10.1 seconds while reaching a top speed of over 80 mph, with a WLTP range of 163 miles.
Despite its electrified powertrain, the D-Max EV maintains the all-terrain capability for which the D-Max is renowned. Full-time four-wheel drive, multi-level regenerative braking, and an Eco Mode help maximise range, while off-road credentials include 600 mm water wading, 210 mm ground clearance, and approach and departure angles of 30.5° and 24.2°, ensuring readiness for challenging worksites, rural roads, and demanding commercial tasks.
Trim Levels and Features
The D-Max EV will launch in two well-equipped trims based on the DL40 and V-Cross models.
D-Max eDL40: Available in Extended Cab and Double Cab, it features chrome exterior styling, an 8-inch infotainment system, 7-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 audio system. Prices start at £59,995 CVOTR (ex. VAT) for the Extended Cab and £60,995 CVOTR (ex. VAT) for the Double Cab.
D-Max eV-Cross: The range-topping model adds distinctive dark grey styling, a 9-inch infotainment system, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and an upgraded eight-speaker premium audio system. Priced at £62,495 CVOTR (ex. VAT), it offers a refined, premium driving experience without compromising utility.
Neil Scott, National Sales Manager at Isuzu UK, said:
“We’re thrilled to secure another major industry win for 2026, especially so soon after the D-Max was recognised as Pick-Up Towcar of the Year by the Caravan and Motorhome Club. The New D-Max EV is a genuine game-changer: the first fully electric pick-up that delivers the full spectrum of commercial capability our customers rely on. To be named ‘One to Watch’ reinforces the market’s confidence in what is set to be a transformative year for Isuzu and for the pick-up segment as a whole.”
With its combination of electric efficiency, serious towing and payload capability, and off-road readiness, the Isuzu D-Max EV is set to redefine expectations in the UK’s commercial vehicle sector, proving that electrification does not mean compromise.
