Isuzu Philippines Executive Vice President, Shojiro Sakoda bluntly revealed: “We invite the public to visit the 9th PIMS in October to see what Isuzu has to offer when it comes to EVs.”

Showcasing the D-Max BEV Concept is highly likely (and other publications have pointed that out), but commercially, Isuzu Philippines might also use the opportunity to show off the updated N-Series (aka Elf) truck which includes a Battery Electric Vehicle or BEV version.

Launching the updated N-Series is important to Isuzu Philippines for two reasons: one, the N-Series is currently the best-selling truck in the country. That said, the current-generation model has been around since 2007, although cosmetic and powertrain updates have been made to it along the way. The updated version was first launched in Japan in 2023 and it’s been already shown off at the Bangkok International Motor Show early this year. This all points to its inevitable arrival to the Philippines.

Second, though the market for all-electric trucks remains small, several logistics companies have shifted to using BEVs for environmental reasons. Currently, only Chinese commercial vehicle brands, most notably Foton, have been serving that market. Now, we’re pretty sure Isuzu wants to get into that action while also keeping its Chinese competitors at bay in everything relating to trucks.

For those who’re curious, the all-new N-Series adopts a grille design like the D-Max while retaining the vertically-arranged headlights. Important updates focus on safety with the N-Series now getting its own Smart Duo Cam safety system too.

The most interesting bit is the BEV version. The N-Series BEV uses the Isuzu Modular Architecture and Component Standard or I-MACS which will help Isuzu upscale the electric powertrain to accommodate medium- and large-sized trucks.

For its application in the N-Series BEV, however, Isuzu emphasized light-duty hauling and short distance runs that rely on agility. As such, they had to re-engineer the weight distribution, wheelbase, and figure out the right turning radius size.

The Center Drive System EV is customizable, allowing companies to choose from two to five battery packs to match transportation requirements. At its largest, it has a 100-kWh battery pack chargeable using the CCS or Type 2 standards.

Regardless of battery size, the N-Series BEV is powered by a single electric motor putting out 204 horsepower (150 kW) and 370 Nm of torque. This gives the 3.2-ton pickup truck a payload capacity of around 4.3 tons.

Of course, it’s entirely possible that the D-Max BEV will also make an appearance. Considered as a concept (but production is on course for 2025), the D-Max’s eAxle puts out 54 horsepower (40 kW) and 108 Nm in the front axle and 122 horsepower (90 kW) and 217 Nm in the rear axle. Combined, it makes 176 horsepower and 325 Nm of torque.

Thanks to the dual motor setup, the D-Max EV Concept has full-time all-wheel drive. In addition, it still has a payload capacity of 1,000 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. The battery uses a lithium-ion construction with a capacity of 66.9 kWh. Underneath, the rear suspension’s been reworked to a De-Dion Axle.

Meanwhile, for those who aren’t sold on battery electric technology just yet, Isuzu may also opt to show off the D-Max Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle or MHEV.

Understood as a solution to markets where battery electric technology is still not viable, the Isuzu D-Max MHEV uses the same 1.9-liter Blue Power engine. Only here, it is supplemented by a small 48-volt electric motor. This engine code—codenamed RZ4E-TC still produces the same 150 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm from 1,800 to 2,600 rpm.

That said, the electrified 1.9-liter Blue Power engine will help reduce the combustion engine’s overall work load, especially at low speeds and accelerating from a standstill. It will also help reduce noise and vibration as well as cut the CO2 emissions.

When quizzed as to when buyers will get to see electrified Isuzu vehicles, Sakoda said: “For the Philippine market, we recognize the growing interest in electric vehicles, and we are carefully evaluating the best approach to introduce our EV models here. Our primary focus is ensuring that the infrastructure, support systems, and consumer readiness are in place to provide the best customer experience.”

When questioned about the possibility of introducing hybrid vehicles as a transitional solution for the Philippine market, Sakoda acknowledged the strategic advantages of hybrid technology. “Introducing hybrid vehicles is something we are actively exploring, especially as we consider the unique challenges and opportunities in the Philippine market. Hybrids could provide a practical bridge towards full electrification, offering improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions while still using existing infrastructure.”

He emphasized that any move towards hybrid technology would be carefully planned and aligned with the evolving needs of Filipino consumers, particularly for commercial vehicles like trucks. “We are continuously monitoring market developments and are open to adapting our product lineup to meet the evolving needs of our customers,” Sakoda added.