Isuzu Trucks to Expand Manufacturing Footprint in the US with New South Carolina Factory
Isuzu Trucks is set to enhance its presence in the United States by constructing a new manufacturing facility in South Carolina. This $280 million plant, scheduled to commence operations in 2027, will focus on assembling both electric and combustion medium-duty trucks. By 2028, the company anticipates employing over 800 individuals at the facility.
With an estimated annual production capacity of around 50,000 vehicles by 2030, Isuzu Trucks aims to cater to the growing demand for its trucks in the North American market. The new South Carolina plant will be responsible for assembling various models, including the Class 5 N-Series NRR EV truck, along with combustion-powered N-Series trucks in Classes 3-5 and F-Series trucks in Classes 5-7. Notably, this facility will be the first within the Isuzu Group to utilize a production line devoid of conveyors or pits, enabling a seamless transition between ICE and EV assembly.
While Isuzu currently operates a manufacturing facility in Charlotte, Michigan, the decision to establish the new plant in South Carolina comes on the heels of a record-breaking 44,000 sales in North America last year. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the market and expanding its local production capabilities.
Shaun Skinner, President of Isuzu Commercial Truck of the U.S. and Canada, emphasized the plant’s high level of flexibility, stating that it will be equipped to produce a diverse range of vehicles to address the demands of the North American market. The Isuzu N-Series NRR EV, known as ELF in Japan, boasts a gross vehicle weight rating of 19,500 pounds and offers varying payload capacities based on the powertrain configuration and body style. Powered by a single electric motor delivering 201 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels, this electric truck is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
The Isuzu N-Series NRR EV features a modular design that allows for different wheelbase options based on the number of battery packs installed. The truck can accommodate up to nine battery packs with a total capacity of 180 kWh, providing a driving range between 122 and 235 miles on a full charge. Additionally, the electric power take-off (ePTO) can supply 7 kW of continuous power to auxiliary equipment, with a peak output of 26 kW.
Charging the Isuzu N-Series NRR EV is convenient, with the option to replenish the batteries from either an AC or DC power source. The vehicle can be fully charged in as little as one to two and a half hours on a DC fast charger, or between five and a half to ten hours on a Level 2 charger, depending on the number of battery packs installed.
The construction of the new manufacturing facility in South Carolina represents a significant milestone for Isuzu Trucks as it looks to solidify its position in the US market and meet the growing demand for electric and combustion medium-duty trucks. The company’s investment in local production facilities underscores its commitment to innovation and sustainability in the transportation industry.