New Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV Concept Debuts In Thailand

Besides an all-electric (EV) concept, Isuzu also showed this new MHEV concept of its venerable D-Max pick-up truck in Thailand this week.

Besides an all-electric (EV) concept, Japanese automaker Isuzu have also reportedly shown a mild-hybrid (MHEV) concept version of its venerable D-Max pick-up truck in Thailand this week. Aptly, it’s been christened as the Isuzu D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV Concept.

Clearly, with its MHEV heart, this D-Max is presented as a proof of concept, which could eventually lead to a production version that’s set to compete with the rivalling Toyota Hilux which also recently adopted an MHEV heart.

According to Isuzu, this concept continues to harness the same 1.9-litre DDi BluePower 4-cyl turbo-diesel lump as found in the existing D-Max. It is, however, augmented with a 48-volt e-motor/generator linked with a battery pack and DC-DC converter.

Similar to the rivalling Hilux MHEV, the D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV Concept also sees its turbo-diesel mill augmented by a 48-volt MHEV system.

Isuzu didn’t shed light on the MHEV powertrain’s outputs, but the firm claims the system serves to reduce the engine’s work load when setting off. It’s also designed to have less of both vibrations and CO2 emissions during idling stop/start cycles – much like the rivalling Hilux MHEV system.

Also, unlike the D-Max BEV concept that’s set to go into production for limited 2025 market release, Isuzu has no such plans yet for this MHEV offshoot. Instead, Isuzu notes that it is still in the midst of a market survey for which before deciding on any production and sales plan yet.

On the latter note, it is worth noting that Isuzu has a similar approach towards carbon neutrality as Toyota whereby the firm is exploring multiple pathways towards decarbonisation. Aptly, the creation of both the MHEV and BEV concepts of the D-Max shown this week represents that.

Both the Isuzu D-Max BEV Concept (right) and the D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV Concept (left) will be showcased at the upcoming Bangkok International Motor Show 2024 next week.  

Additionally, the market survey Isuzu mentioned should include the upcoming Bangkok International Motor Show 2024 (BIMS 2024) expo that’s slated for next week. Both the D-Max BEV and this new D-Max Hi-Lander MHEV concepts will be shown publicly for the first time then.