Isuzu Motors will begin selling compact electric trucks in North America this August, with plans to introduce midsize models by 2026, Nikkei reported. This strategic move aims to preempt the U.S. government’s stricter vehicle emissions regulations set for 2027.
To facilitate local assembly, Isuzu will export components from Japan to its North American partner. The compact trucks will offer a range of 68-130 miles and will primarily be leased to logistics companies to streamline their rollout. Specifications for the midsize trucks will be determined at a later date.
Electric trucks typically cost about twice as much as gasoline-powered ones. Despite this, the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) truck market is projected to grow significantly, from approximately $700 million in 2023 to $15.1 billion by 2030, according to P&S Intelligence.
Isuzu’s entry into the EV truck market comes amid heightened activity from European and American manufacturers, including Tesla. With EVs currently holding less than 0.5% of the medium to large truck segments and 6.6% among small trucks in 2023, according to S&P Global Mobility, Isuzu aims to establish a strong presence and achieve long-term growth in this burgeoning market.
