National Grid Tests Isuzu D-Max Electric Pickups

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In an exciting development for the electric vehicle industry, National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is gearing up to test the highly anticipated D-Max EV ahead of its official launch in early 2026. This groundbreaking all-electric pickup truck is poised to make waves in the European market, and NGED is at the forefront of its testing process.

The field engineers at NGED are set to put the D-Max EV through its paces in a variety of challenging environments and terrains. With a dedicated team of eight engineers, the extensive testing will play a pivotal role in refining the vehicle’s capabilities, ensuring it meets the demands of utility fleets and contributes to a greener future.

With a starting price of £59,995 (CVOTR), the D-Max EV will be available in both extended and double cab versions. What sets it apart from its competitors is its impressive payload capacity of over 1,000kg, a towing capacity of 3,500kg, and full-time 4×4 capabilities. This makes it the first fully electric commercial pickup in Europe to offer such specifications, marking a significant milestone in the transition towards electric utility vehicles.

The partnership between Isuzu and NGED represents a critical step in ensuring that the D-Max EV is fit for purpose within the utility sector. For the past four years, the two organisations have been collaborating closely, with NGED fleet technical specialist Jane Nicholson and her team engaging with Isuzu’s design groups in both Japan and Europe. This collaboration has allowed them to provide valuable operational insights and converter input from the specialist firm Strongs, ensuring that the vehicle is equipped with tailored storage and equipment solutions necessary for utility fieldwork.

Jane Nicholson expressed her enthusiasm, stating: “We’ve always trialled EV vehicles before deploying them into the business, but never to the extent that we are doing with the Isuzu D-Max EV, which will have off-road capabilities and the ability to tow and winch.” This thorough testing process underscores NGED’s commitment to ensuring that the D-Max EV meets the rigorous demands of daily utility operations.

NGED’s transport manager, Chris Mayell, shared his insights on the significance of this testing phase: “This is a unique chance to shape not just the vehicle itself but the way it’s fitted out for the demands of our fieldwork. Ultimately, we hope it will also be another important step forward in our ambition to have a decarbonised fleet.” This vision reflects NGED’s dedication to embracing cleaner fuel sources, as they work to modernise one of the UK’s largest and most diverse fleets.

Currently, NGED operates around 1,200 electric vehicles, which includes 400 commercial vehicles and 800 cars. Their commitment to sustainability is evident through their ongoing efforts to transition to cleaner fuel sources. In the past, the company has successfully collaborated with manufacturers and specialists to develop innovative vehicles, such as the conversion of a Škoda Enyaq electric car into a new 4×4 utility EV. This collaboration not only led to the successful trial of electric vehicles but also inspired Škoda to launch a commercial Cargo variant of the SUV.

David Cassidy, one of the NGED technicians involved in the D-Max EV trials, shared his perspective on the testing process: “Isuzu and Strongs were upfront about what features could be included, and clear about the trade-offs too, such as payload versus battery size. The vehicle itself feels impressively like our current diesel models, which makes the transition easier. I’m feeling genuinely excited about trialling the EV in daily work.” His excitement is palpable, reflecting the optimism surrounding the potential of electric vehicles in utility operations.

Mark Hayes, fleet sales manager at Isuzu UK, also weighed in on the significance of the D-Max EV: “D-Max EV is engineered to deliver uncompromised capability, whether that’s towing, loading, off-road access or endurance, while enabling our fleet customers to take a bold step into zero-emission operation. Trials like this make certain we bring to market a vehicle that not only runs clean but also performs without compromise.” This commitment to performance reinforces the notion that electric vehicles can be both sustainable and practical for various applications.

As we look to the future, the D-Max EV is more than just another electric vehicle; it represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of utility transport. The collaboration between NGED and Isuzu showcases the power of partnership in driving innovation and sustainability. By prioritising rigorous testing and feedback, they are laying the groundwork for a vehicle that meets the needs of modern utility operations while contributing to the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions.

In conclusion, the D-Max EV is set to redefine the standards for electric commercial vehicles in the UK and beyond. With its impressive capabilities and the backing of dedicated professionals at NGED and Isuzu, the future of utility transport looks brighter and greener than ever. As we continue to push towards a decarbonised fleet, initiatives such as these remind us that innovation and collaboration are key to achieving our net-zero ambitions.

Stay tuned for more updates on the D-Max EV and other exciting developments in the world of electric vehicles. Together, we can drive the transition towards a more sustainable future!