Electric Vehicle Highlights at the Commercial Vehicle Show
The recent Commercial Vehicle Show was an electrifying event, showcasing significant electric vehicle (EV) debuts from both established manufacturers and newcomers to the UK market. Transport News Brief takes a closer look at some of the electric vehicle highlights from this year’s event.
Isuzu Unveils D-Max EV
Isuzu unveiled its new D-Max fully electric pick-up truck at the event. The vehicle features a dual-motor electric powertrain, providing full-time all-wheel-drive. Based on the existing diesel D-Max, it maintains the same one-tonne payload and 3.5-tonne towing capacity. The D-Max EV boasts an all-new De-Dion rear suspension, multi-level regenerative braking, Eco mode, and a lithium-ion battery with an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty. With a 66.9kWh battery, it achieves a driving range of about 150 miles and supports DC fast charging at 50kW. Pre-sales are set to begin in the second half of 2025, with UK deliveries starting in March 2026.
“Showcasing the left-hand drive version at the Commercial Vehicle Show puts us at the heart of this historic launch,” said Alan Able, Managing Director of Isuzu UK. “We’re already working with fleet customers to ensure they can begin evaluating the D-Max EV well ahead of the right-hand drive version arriving in early 2026.”
Kia Enters UK Commercial Vehicle Market
Kia launched its PV5 model, entering the UK commercial vehicle market for the first time. The PV5 Cargo uses Kia’s purpose-built E-GMP.S platform and is available in two body lengths with a high roof option. The Standard Range van offers up to 181 miles on a 51.4kWh battery, while the Long Range version achieves 247 miles with a 71.2kWh unit. All variants support 400V fast charging, allowing a 10-80% charge in under 30 minutes. Kia also announced plans to establish a network of 45 professional business van (PBV) centres across the UK later this year.
“The launch of Kia PBVs is the greatest change Kia has undergone since entering the UK car market over three decades ago,” stated Paul Philpott, president & CEO of Kia UK. “We look forward to forming new relationships and helping businesses switch to electric with the Kia PV5.”
Renault Displays Electric Vans
Renault showcased its Trafic, Goelette, and Estafette vehicles, all designed to optimise load capacity. Based on the new Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) architecture, these vans offer up to 280 miles of range and can charge from 15-80% in 20 minutes.
Farizon Exhibits Electric Vehicles
Farizon, a newcomer to the CV Show, displayed various versions of its SV electric model, including an SV converted by Paneltex into a refrigerated vehicle. The company also partnered with Locks 4 Vans as its recommended security partner.
“The CV Show has been a great opportunity for us to showcase that the Farizon SV is ready for work and can be adapted by approved specialist partners,” said Kate McLaren, Head of Marketing and Sales Operations at Jameel Motors UK.
Ford’s Electric Lineup
Ford displayed its latest electric Transit lineup, including the E-Transit Courier, E-Transit Custom, and the new E-Transit with enhanced range. Ford also introduced the Ranger Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and launched its Power Promise package for small business customers switching to electric.
Renault Trucks Master E-Tech
Renault Trucks showcased an all-electric Master E-Tech L3H2 panel van with a redesigned motor and 87kWh battery, offering a WLTP range of 286 miles. The van supports 130kW DC charging and features an optional vehicle-to-load (V2L) system.
The Commercial Vehicle Show highlighted the rapid advancements in electric commercial vehicles, with various manufacturers unveiling new models and technologies aimed at improving range, efficiency, and customer support.
