Can this electric bakkie survive the Mzansi grind?
- Price: TBA (Expected R700k-R900k)
- Battery: 66.9 kWh lithium-ion
- Power: 130 kW / 325 Nm
- Range: 300 km (claimed)
- Towing: 3,500 kg
Isuzu has long been a stalwart in South Africa’s bakkie market, with the D-Max earning a reputation as a rugged, reliable workhorse. Now, the all-electric D-Max BEV promises sustainability – but does it have the real-world capability for SA’s demanding conditions?
The Specs: EV vs Diesel Showdown
Dual-motor AWD setup replaces traditional diesel engine
| Metric | D-Max EV | D-Max 3.0 Diesel |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 130 kW | 140 kW |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Range | 300 km | 800-1,000 km |
| Refuel/Recharge | 8-10 hrs (AC) | 5 min (diesel) |
Key limitation: The 300 km range could drop to 150 km when towing or off-roading – problematic for rural SA.
Can It Handle South Africa’s Grind?
Aggressive styling mirrors diesel X-Rider trim
Tech-forward cabin with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Critical Challenges:
- Load-shedding: Home charging unreliable during power cuts
- Rural charging: Only 150+ fast chargers nationwide (vs. 5,000+ fuel stations)
- Battery degradation: Extreme heat/cold may reduce lifespan
The Verdict: Promising but Not Ready
1,000kg payload matches diesel models
For urban users: Stylish, lower running costs make sense if you have reliable charging.
For farmers/contractors: Diesel remains king until range and infrastructure improve.
Could you consider the D-Max EV for your needs? Let us know in the comments!