Isuzu has shown off a rugged go-anywhere concept for its D-Max pickup, taking the popular Arctic Trucks AT35 version and making it bigger and bolder to create the AT37. More than just a slightly larger number, the AT37 benefits from an adjustable Arctic Trucks Bilstein performance suspension system with 10 different settings, upgraded front and rear differentials, additional front and rear elevation increases, and enormous 37-inch BFGoodrich KM3 Mud-Terrain tyres. All told it stands 140mm taller than a regular D-Max. As with the existing AT35 model, the concept AT37 receives extensive re-engi ..read more

B-On used the Commercial Vehicle Show to launch its new Pelkan van in the UK, and took the opportunity to announce a new partnership with Chinese behemoth Chery. After a difficult period that saw the production of the Max and Giga cease, with some parts of the company filing for insolvency in 2023, B-On has partnered with Chery to form a joint venture and launch the new Pelkan electric light commercial vehicle. B-On Pelkan Electric Van Based on the Karry Penguin — one of Chery’s Chinese market models — the Pelkan is a mid-sized all-electric offering with impressive payload limits of up to 1,35 ..read more

Isuzu has used the 2024 Commercial Vehicle Show to start sales of its limited edition D-Max V-Cross Steel Edition pickup. Limited to just 300 vehicles, the Steel model is loaded with cosmetic touches to separate it from the regular D-Max models. As well as an exclusive Steel Grey Mica colour, the special edition also gains dark grey wheel arch extensions, roof rails, and Isuzu badging, alongside electric folding mirrors, a tailgate damper, and ‘STEEL’ branding everywhere you look. The rest of the pickup is shared with the top-of-the-range V-Cross trim level, which sees the truck fitted with a ..read more

Ford has boosted its E-Transit electric van with a larger battery pack, extending its range to as much as 249 miles. Europe’s best-selling large electric van will be available with an 89kWh battery pack — a 30% increase in capacity from the 68kWh fitted to the standard range model — and faster charging performance, improving the vehicle’s capabilities for customers in multiple scenarios. Chagrin speeds have increased significantly, with the updated E-Transit able to charge at a rate of 180kW, up from 115kW. With a suitable rapid charger, a ten-minute top-up can add as much as 72 miles of range ..read more

Isuzu has renewed its support of the Spartan Race for a second year. As the Official Automotive Partner for the extreme obstacle course series, the partnership will run alongside the pickup brand’s ongoing collaboration with Tough Mudder. Isuzu uses the Tough Mudder partnership to showcase the D-Max as a tough and capable 4×4 pickup, with the range-topping D-Max Arctic Trucks AT35 mirroring the ethos of the extreme race series. As Isuzu moves into the extreme adventure sector, a limited-edition Spartan-branded D-Max AT35 has been provided to the series. In addition to displaying the course gra ..read more

Kia has confirmed that its forthcoming Ford Ranger rival will be called Tasman. The name, which has been associated with the truck since last summer, is inspired by the rugged Tasmania region of Australia, which will also be the first territory to take delivery of the pickup. The Kia Tasman will be the brand’s first C-segment pickup, offering a balance between practical workhorse performance and the luxury and comfort of a luxury lifestyle vehicle. Kia hasn’t confirmed any technical details, but the pickup is expected to be available with the 2.2-litre diesel engine that powers the Kia Sorent ..read more

Kia outlined a comprehensive strategy at its 2024 CEO Investor Day, held in Seoul. It placed a strong emphasis on its Platform Beyond Vehicles (or van) range, confirmed new PBV models and launch windows, and targeted an ambitious annual sales figure of 250,000 units by 2030. This strategic focus is part of Kia’s broader vision to evolve into a ‘Sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider’ and cement its position in the global electrification era. While many of the forthcoming commercial vehicles had been announced earlier in the year, Kia confirmed two key PBV models, the PV5 and PV7, slated for r ..read more

GWM is set to expand its range in Australia with the upcoming launch of the Cannon Alpha pickup. The Cannon Alpha, the largest GWM product to date, will be available with either a hybrid or diesel powertrain, making it the first pickup in Australia with a full hybrid powertrain option. Power comes from a 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid petrol engine delivering 345hp and 648Nm of torque. A traditional diesel option is available, with the 2.4-litre engine producing 184hp and 480Nm of torque. Both options are paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox, and both will tow 3,500kg. The power is needed ..read more

Toyota is to start mass-producing an electric version of the Hilux pickup by the end of 2025, according to Toyota Thailand’s president, Noriaki Yamashita. According to Reuters, Yamashita told reporters at the Bangkok International Motor Show that the Hilux could be ready by the end of next year. While not specifying where the electric Hilux would be produced, Thailand is a global hub for pickup manufacturing, with variants of the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Mitsubishi Triton, MG Extender, Nissan Navara and Toyota Hilux trucks rolling out of factories in the country. With Toyota expe ..read more

KGM has added a Birmingham dealer to its growing network. The new KGM Birmingham showroom is part of the All Electric Garages Group, which has operated for over 60 years and is located on Woodthorpe Road. The name All Electric Garages originates from its early adoption of an electric-pumped petrol station in 1917. The KGM showroom features modern facilities, providing customers with a comfortable area with a hospitality section offering refreshments and free Wi-Fi. Visitors can view the model lineup, which includes the Rexton, Musso, Korando, Korando e-Motion, and Tivoli. KGM also provides aft ..read more