The 2020 Isuzu D-Max is One Tough MF

The all-new 2020 Isuzu D-Max is one tough pickup truck; that much has been confirmed as it scored an impeccable 5 out of 5 stars at the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program or NCAP crash safety tests.

The latest result builds up on the D-Max’s stellar performance at the ASEAN NCAP. In 2014, Isuzu’s pickup truck scored a 4-star safety rating.

The 2020 D-Max is the first pickup truck is tested under the revised (and stricter) 2017-2020 ASEAN NCAP protocols. ASEAN NCAP notes that it has “enhancements n both passive and active safety technologies.”

Equipped with dual SRS airbags, ABS, and seat belt minder across all variants (at least in the Thai domestic market trim which was tested), the 2020 D-Max scored 83.16 points out of a possible 100—nabbing a 5-star safety rating. The score is based on 42.72 points out of 50 in Adult Occupant Protection, 21.83 points out of 25 points in Child Occupant Protection, and 18.61 points out of 25 points in Safety Assist Technologies.

The all-new 2020 D-Max is built on a brand-new platform—the Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform. It uses ultra-high strength steel for the first time, while use of high-strength steel is up from 30 to 46 percent. Aside from dual SRS airbags, ABS, and seat belt minder, selected variants of Isuzu’s pickup truck can be equipped with stability control as well as blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Isuzu Shows Off D-Max's Aftermarket Potential with One-Off GO2

When you think of accessorizing, the Isuzu D-Max rarely makes it on top of most project car lists. Though it’s been proven to look great with the Boondock Edition, most would consider other pickup trucks as their starting point. It’s for this reason that Isuzu UK has come up with this one-of-a-kind D-Max: to show the pickup’s aftermarket potential. Meet the Isuzu D-Max GO2.

Starting with a stock 4x4 in Splash White, the guys over at Isuzu UK dug through the genuine accessories catalog and even went to other aftermarket specialists for the conversion. Designed to go on some grueling off-road expedition (hence the GO2 moniker), consider this a more extroverted version of the D-Max AT35.

The front still features the stock bumper, but it’s been modified to fit an ARB Sahara bar. Not only does this heavy-duty steel bumper protect the D-Max GO2 during off-road expeditions, but it also serves to mount the Britpart Pulling Power Winch and its 4-ton-rated line. Oh, and since the fog lights had to go in this conversion, Isuzu opted to install a light bar on the roof instead. A Safari snorkel also increases the D-Max GO2’s water wading depth.

At the side, the side step boards have been replaced with heavy-duty ones. These side steps not only shield the D-Max from rocks and debris but are incredibly strong since they’re mounted to the chassis.

At the back, there’s another heavy-duty bumper, this time with a rear step tow bar. A fully lockable and retractable Mountain Top roller cover has been fitted to the load bed.  This has multiple positions and can be operated with a pull strap.

At each corner, the D-Max GO2 swaps its 18-inch alloys for 16-inch ones. Together with 33-inch mud terrain tires, they offer enhanced off-road grip. The brakes have been upgraded as well with a Pedders system. At the front are heavy-duty brakes with vented discs and part-ceramic pads, while the rear drum has been replaced with a Pedders drum and disc brake combination. This retains the advantage of having a drum handbrake, which is best for off-road environments, but upgrades the vehicle braking to vented disc brakes.

In terms of suspension, a Pedders TrakRyder eXtreme system has been added; consisting of two front adjustable coilovers and two rear leaf springs combined with adjustable shock absorbers.  A Pedders TrakRyder front upper wishbone has been installed for greater front suspension articulation and a Pedders rear anti-roll bar has been fitted to help control body roll.  Plus, the truck has been raised for additional ground clearance.

Oh, and while the D-Max is fitted with a underguard kit to project the engine, transmission, and fuel tank, the D-Max GO2 beefs it up to include the rear differential as well. Mechanically, a lockable rear differential has also been incorporated for increased off-road assistance.

Right now, Isuzu UK has no plans to sell the D-Max GO2 from the showroom, but it does show the adaptability of the D-Max as an aftermarket truck.

Isuzu PH Finally Gives Us a 4x4 Version of the D-Max Boondock (w/ Specs)

When Isuzu Philippines released the Boondock variant for its D-Max pickup last year, there were some head scratching: why add a 4x4-centric package to a 4x2? Well, it seems Isuzu’s addressed those complaints, and has now come up with the D-Max Boondock 4x4.

Based on the 4x4 variant of the D-Max 3.0 LS, the D-Max Boondock is fitted with 265/70 R 17 All-Terrain Tires with black alloy rims. Isuzu says this tire-and-wheel package gives added traction across various conditions be it on or off the road.

The ride height is up now to 247 mm, while overall height stands at 1,900 mm. The increase is thanks to a new monotube nitrogen-charged performance shock absorbers. Moreover, it offers faster damping reaction improving the D-Max Boondock’s steering control.

Like the 4x2 variant, the D-Max Boondock 4x4 has steel side steps with a honeycomb design with the Boondock logo. It also comes equipped with a roof rail, cargo extender, rocker panel, over fender, and a massive “Boondock” decal on the tailgate. Oh, and unlike the 4x2, the 4x4 version gets hoood and side body graphics as well. Colors available are: Silky White Pearl, Red Spinel, Titanium Silver, and Cosmic Black.

Under the hood, the D-MAX Boondock 4x4 is unchanged. It packs a Euro-4 emission rated 4JJ1-TCX 4-Cylinder with 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. Great news is that unlike the previous 4x2 version, this particular D-Max Boondock is available in both manual or automatic versions.

The best part is that for its introductory price, the D-Max Boondock 4x4 keeps the price of the “regular” 3.0L 4x4—P 1,725,000 for the M/T and P 1,795,000 for the A/T. So you basically end up getting all the Boondock goodies without paying an extra cent.

Isuzu Philippines Donates a D-Max to Help in Taal Relief Operations

Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) donated one Isuzu D-Max 4x4 LS MT to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), Laguna Chapter for the mobilization of relief efforts due to the eruption of Taal Volcano.

The turnover which happened at the IPC plant in Biñan, Laguna included additional supplies such as bottled water, toiletries, clothes, and other essentials apart from the D-Max unit itself.

After being used in Taal relief efforts, the D-Max will then be used to support the Philippine Red Cross’s mission to provide life-saving services that protect the life of Filipinos in vulnerable situations.

The 2020 D-Max Gets All-New Engine, Platform; Looks Mighty Impressive

Isuzu has finally pulled the covers off its much-anticipated 2020 D-Max—the first time their venerable pickup truck has received a full-on model change in eight years. Utilizing a new powertrain and underpinned by an all-new platform, the D-Max now has what it takes to fight in the competitive pickup truck segment.

With sales starting in Thailand on October 19, the all-new D-Max uses a brand-new platform dubbed the Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform. Since this pickup truck is a collaboration with Mazda, it makes sense that the platform, chassis, engine, and suspension all work cohesively to achieve balanced driving performance.

The body structure itself is stronger thanks to the use of ultra-high tensile steel for the first time. Furthermore, the use of high-strength steel is up from 30 to 46 percent. This results in 23 percent higher rigidity than the outgoing model. The lightweight frame also has expanded cross sections further improving impact absorption. Moreover, a shear mount is used in the place of the body mount in order to improve driving stability and lower NVH.

And while the chassis retains the same basic set-up (front independent wishbones and rear semi-elliptic leaf springs), the front employs high-mounted suspension arms with upper links, while the back has a wider tread and reduced mounting angle all to boost stability. The steering’s gear ratio has been improved to reduce the steering effort, while the D-Max now incorporates a tilt/telescopic steering wheel for improved driver comfort.

Under the hood, Isuzu is replacing its 4JJ1-TCX engine with the brand-new 4JJ3-TCX. Using high-pressure 250 MPa direct injection and electronically-controlled variable geometry turbocharger, it yields 190 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,600 rpm. Meanwhile, the 1.9-liter RZ4E moves to its second-generation. And while outputs remain more or less the same: 150 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1,800 to 2,600 rpm—it accelerates faster thanks to optimized control systems.

The transmission options remain a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. For the RZ4E-equipped models, the automatic transmission has a downsized torque converter and lockup clutch with a wide-angle damper for improved response and fuel economy. Meanwhile, for four-wheel drive models, the propeller shaft is now made of aluminum, while a new electromagnetic rear differential lock enhances traction while reducing the time to switch between 2- and 4-wheel drive modes. With this, the D-Max joins the 800-mm water wading club while gaining an impressive 240 mm of ground clearance.

Inside, the D-Max uses low-rebound MDI polyurethane material for the seats to reduce fatigue during long drives while employing 8-way power adjust for optimal comfort. The rear seats have also been improved for greater comfort along with easier ingress/egress thanks to B-pillar mounted assist grips and larger door openings. The instrument cluster incorporates a 4.2-inch colored multi-information display, while the 9-inch infotainment system incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The sweeping dashboard uses highly-textured surfaces for a sportier, more premium look. Push-button engine start/stop with walkaway automatic lock, dual automatic climate control with rear air vents, and a UVA/UVB filtering windshield round out the luxury features. Safety features include 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, stability control, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, and rain-sensing wipers.

Outside, the angular and wedge-shaped body constitutes a more powerful presence. Bi-LED headlights are available as are dual LED taillights. Furthermore, the step bumper is fully integrated into the rear bumper for a more sophisticated look. On the top trim model, the standard tire size is 265/60R 18.

Rally Driving Immersion Project Aims to Raise the Popularity of Rally Racing

Isuzu Philippines Corporation sponsored the Rally Driving Immersion Project or RDIP where motoring media personalities were able to get behind the wheel of a rally-prepped truck to experience the thrills of rally driving.

The project, in partnership with the Philippine Rally School (PRS) and the Philippine Rallycross Series (PHRX) held its second leg last October 5 where participants went through with formal training on rally driving techniques.

It was done at the rallycross facility of the Pradera Verde Estates in Lubao, Pampanga.

The PRS, with veteran rally drivers Jun Magno, Steve Acayan, and Denise Santos taught the basics of rally driving in a controlled dirt course. Among the basics learned included proper driving position, rally lines (late apex), braking, car control on loose surface, basic maneuvers, and driving on a skid pad.

The skills acquired from the Rally Clinic aims to provide motoring journalists with deeper know-how about car control which they can then relay to the cars they test for their respective publications.

Isuzu Philippines provided the reliable D-Max 3.0 4x4 A/T and mu-X 3.0 4x4 A/T for the RDIP. In their latest guise, these two offerings provide an ample 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque.
A brainchild of veteran motoring journalist Anjo Perez, the RDIP aims to help raise the popularity of the event rally racing through the experiential ride and drive event for the media.

“It is usually the motoring media who writes about these races and it would only be fitting for them to experience and know exactly what a rally driver experiences during a race,” Perez said. “Hopefully after undergoing the Rally Driving Immersion Project, it will enable the motoring journalists to convey first person experience of the events or situations that transpires during the event.

The RDIP is also supported by Black Rhino Wheels, Nitto Tires, PIAA, Sonax, CTEK, Ichiro Motor Oils, Wuerth Philippines, and Red Bull.

This is Your First Look at the 2020 Isuzu D-Max

Here is the 2020 Isuzu D-Max fully unveiled (10/11).

Isuzu has given the world the first glimpse of the all-new, next-generation D-Max pickup truck which will be shown in full in two weeks’ time. Details are scarce at the moment, but what is known is that this model marks a departure from Isuzu’s collaboration with General Motors. Instead, this model will benefit with input from fellow Japanese carmaker, Mazda.

Teaser photos released by Isuzu Thailand reveal that the all-new D-Max will have LED headlights and U-shaped LED daytime running lights. It will also have larger, more prominent grille, and square, stacked LED taillights. Inside, it looks to benefit from modern, more premium materials such as white-colored interior lighting and toggle-like switches for the climate control. It’s also expected that the D-Max will have all digital instrumentation and an updated infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Not much is known about the D-Max’s new powertrain, but reports suggest that it may get an upgraded version of the existing 3.0-liter 4-cylinder engine or even a twin-turbo version of the 1.9-liter RZ4E. Regardless, expect no less than 175 horsepower and 430 Nm of torque. Of course, the transmission will remain a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.

Furthermore, it looks like off-roading capability will remain a priority for Isuzu. Based on the photo, there’s a glimpse of a rear differential lock button, something the current model does not offer (the current D-Max doesn’t even have a limited slip differential). There have also been suggestions that it’ll get the option of a coil spring rear suspension along with the traditional leaf spring set-up.

The collaboration with Mazda also drove Isuzu to introduce better safety equipment in the 2020 D-Max and this could mean features such as forward collision warning with automatic braking.

The D-Max will arrive first and the Mazda version of the pickup truck, the all-new BT-50 will debut 12 months after. And although Isuzu is building the new pickup truck for both brands, it’s understood that the Mazda version will sport a unique appearance.

Isuzu Dealers are Offering the 2020 D-Max LS-A with Up to P 250,000 Discount

After its launch in Metro Manila, Isuzu Philippines Corporation brought its 2020 D-Max LS-A for two regional launches: one in Visayas, and the other in Mindanao.

In both locations, the most stylish iteration of the D-Max LS-A went immediately to work with a multi-day public test drive that showcased the capabilities of Isuzu’s lifestyle-oriented diesel workhorse. The Davao leg in particular had the D-Max LS-A go through a “4x4 Tough Test Course” which included obstacles such as a lateral descent ditch crossing, cross axle articulation, elephant holes, 45-degree camber sides, and a 40-degree hill climb and descent course.

The 2020 D-Max LS-A is powered by Isuzu’s dependable 3.0-liter 4JJ1-TCX engine making 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. The available transmissions remain a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.

Complementing its performance, the D-Max LS-A comes with a redesigned front bumper with dark gray elements. The same dark gray elements extend to the grille, side mirrors, fender lip, cargo extender, and roof rail.

For occupant comfort and convenience, the D-Max LS-A is equipped with the automatic climate control, a passive entry/push start-stop system, a 12-volt accessory socket, three USB charging ports, 15 storage compartments, and 10 cup holders.

It comes in 6 colors: Cosmic Black, Sapphire Blue, Titanium Silver, Red Spinel, Splash White, and Silky Pearl White.

After initially announcing that there will be no price increase for the 2020 D-Max LS-A, Isuzu Philippines clarifies that the pricing “will be more competitive.” Just how competitive you may ask? Officially, Isuzu is still sticking to the SRP of P 1,630,000 for the M/T and P 1,700,000 for the A/T.

However, a quick phone call to dealers reveal that they’re giving anywhere between P 150,000 to P 250,000 discount. That brings the LS-A M/T to just P 1,380,000 and P 1,450,000 for the LS-A A/T.

2020 Isuzu D-Max Brings More Style For the Same Price

Sixteen years after its nameplate was introduced into the market, Isuzu Philippines Corporation launches the most modern, most stylish iteration of the D-Max yet: the 2020 LS-A.

Designed to capture pickup truck buyers who see them more as lifestyle vehicles than workhorses, the 2020 D-Max LS-A comes with key features first found on the D-Max Boondock Edition. It comes with a new high-gloss dark gray front grille, bumper, rocker panels, side steps, bed extender, and roof rails. Two-tone machined silver and black 18-inch alloy wheels complete the look.

Inside, the D-Max brings with it some premium features such as a passive entry/push start-stop system, automatic climate control, and USB charging slots.

The 2020 D-Max LS-A continues to be powered by Isuzu’s 4JJ1-TCX 3.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. Initially available in 4x4 guise, they will soon offer a 4x2 guise of the LS-A as well. Both variants though are offered with a choice between a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic.

With more than 46,000 examples sold thus far, the D-Max has been an important product for Isuzu Philippines Corporation. The 2020 model continues that trend by offering a stylish yet functional design in a nameplate renowned for its durability, fuel efficiency, and overall value for money.

The new D-Max LS-A comes in the following colors: Cosmic Black, Sapphire Blue, Titanium Silver, Red Spinel, Splash White, and Silky Pearl White. As an introductory offer, it will continue to be priced the same as the 2019 LS model:

• 3.0 LS-A 4x2 M/T – P 1,320,000
• 3.0 LS-A 4x2 A/T – P 1,390,000
• 3.0 LS-A 4x4 M/T – P 1,630,000
• 3.0 LS-A 4x4 A/T – P 1,700,000

The 2020 Isuzu D-Max LS-A will be displayed for the public at the New Glorietta Activity Center from today until August 31, 2019.

The Isuzu D-Max Beats Land Rover, BMW for Class Win at the Africa Eco Race

Isuzu proved the durability and pace of its D-Max pickup truck by surviving the 6,022-kilometer Africa Eco Race, finishing ahead of Land Rover, BMW, and Gaz. It finished first in its class (T1.2) and 18th overall among a field of 45 vehicles.

After the annual Dakar Rally was moved to South America, the Africa Eco Race was organized for those who wanted to live “the real Dakar spirit.” Starting from Monaco, it was 15 days of competitive adventure and challenges through special stages, sandy tracks, and mountainous dunes.

Supported by Isuzu Thailand, the Enduring 2000 Racing won the T1.2 diesel four-wheel drive class after it crossed the finish line at the pink lake of Senegal, Lac Rose (Lake Retba). What made the feat even more spectacular was that the D-Max piloted by Hiroaki Suzuki and Rodger Pedersen used the standard 1.9-liter RZ4E Blue Power diesel engine, gearbox, and drivetrain!

Already a formidable pickup with its one-ton payload and 3.5-ton towing capacity, surviving the Moroccan desert, savage Mauritanian and Senegalese landscapes has the D-Max rally-proven as well.

Buy an Isuzu mu-X, Get a KTM Motorcycle and a P 50,000 Discount

During the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), one of the hottest offers was a free KTM motorcycle with every purchase of an Isuzu mu-X. Well, that promo’s back and now it covers both the mu-X SUV and D-Max pickup truck.

Exclusively offered through BPI Family Saving Bank’s All Out promo, buyers who avail of auto loans on either an Isuzu mu-X 3.0 LS-A AT or D-Max RZ4E LS MT or AT get a free KTM 200 Duke worth P 147,000 (available only at Isuzu Alabang, Isuzu Cavite, Isuzu Pasig, Isuzu Rizal, Isuzu Taytay, Isuzu Cebu, Isuzu Mandaue, Isuzu Iloilo, Isuzu Bohol, and Isuzu Talisay). On top of that, clients may also get P 200,000 worth of accessories and other freebies such as insurance, LTO registration, tint, and floor matting.

Not interested in a brand-new Isuzu? No worries. If you’re eyeing a Honda, there’s up to P 130,000 discount, while for the Mazda CX-5, CX-9, and MX-5, you get an extended Preventive Maintenance Service (PMS) package that covers parts and labor to five years (up from three).

“We have been helping our customers realize their life goals for decades now and we are grateful for their trust and support. This year, we celebrated our anniversary with a special offering that will enable more Filipinos to reach their dreams sooner rather than later,” Ms. Cristina Go, BPI Family Savings Bank President said.

“We believe that every Filipino deserves a comfortable life and the best for every centavo that they have worked for, which is why we give as much as we can to clients,” said Dennis Fronda, Head of BFSB Retail Loans.

The BPI Family Savings Bank All Out promo runs from now until October 31, 2019.

Isuzu Philippines Officially Launches 2019 D-MAX Boondock Edition

A month after the festive and successful launch of the I Love Isuzu campaign last April, Isuzu Philippines Corporation (IPC) shifts the celebration a bit further south at Isuzu Santa Rosa with its “Open House” concept.

The “Open House” concept, part of the I Love Isuzu campaign is the company’s way of making its products and services closer to its customers and potential buyers. The first such event also saw the official market launch of the D-MAX Boondock.

Based on actual feedback, including members of the D-MAX Club coming from Team Isuzu Pilipinas and Team ICE, the D-MAX Boondock Edition packs a tougher, more durable, and more powerful persona.

With a higher ride height of 247 millimeters and a 1,900-millimeter overall height, the D-MAX Boondock Edition gains a muscular, off-road ready look sought by pickup buyers today.

Based on the D-MAX 3.0L LS, the D-MAX Boondock Edition is fitted with 265/70 R 17 All-Terrain Tires with black alloy rims. The all-terrain tire package has been engineered to provide ultimate traction across various conditions, whether on the highway or on the trail.

The height increase is due to new monotube nitrogen-charged performance shock absorbers which ensures instantaneous response to changing road conditions and offers faster damping reaction. As a result, the D-MAX Boondock Edition should have improved steering control.

Visually differentiating the D-MAX Boondock Edition, it has steel side steps with a honeycomb design with the Boondock logo. It also comes equipped with a roof rail, cargo extender, rocker panel, over fender, and a massive “Boondock” decal on the tailgate.

Under the hood, the D-MAX Boondock Edition packs a Euro-4 emission rated 4JJ1-TCX 4-Cylinder with 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. That said, this beefed-up version is only available as a 4x2 variant in two colors: Cosmic Black and Galena Gray. It comes with a choice between a manual or automatic. The D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS MT Boondock retails for P 1,390,000, while the D-MAX 3.0 4x2 LS AT Boondock goes for P 1,455,000.

Isuzu Philippines Now Has the Most Affordable Mid-Grade Automatic Pick-Up in the Country

After a special limited time discount on the mu-X Luxe, Isuzu Philippines Corporation is now expanding its discount offer to cover the D-Max as well. Until the end of month, both variants of the D-Max RZ4E 4x2 LS can be had with substantial savings be it through cash or financing purchases.

Applicable at all Isuzu dealerships nationwide, the D-Max RZ4E LS now comes with a P 150,000 discount. This effectively slashes the price of the LS manual transmission variant to just P 1,059,000 making it the most affordable mid-grade pickup available in the market today. Meanwhile, the automatic transmission variant drops its price to just P 1,129,000, itself a very enticing offer.

The Isuzu D-Max RZ4E comes equipped with the revolutionary 1.9-liter RZ4E-TC engine. Following the downsized engine trend, the 1.9-liter motor still manages an output of 150 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic ensuring excellent fuel economy and range.

The D-Max RZ4E LS features bi-LED headlights, 16-inch alloy wheels, electroluminescent gauges with MID, and a 7-inch full touchscreen infotainment system with 6 speakers making it an excellent value given its current price point.

This limited offer on the D-Max RZ4E LS is all part of the I Love Isuzu campaign and is valid until May 31, 2019 only.

The Isuzu D-Max Boondock is Returning This Month

Remember that special-looking D-Max that Isuzu Philippines showed off at the Philippine International Motor Show last year? Well, it’s finally heading into production and it’ll be officially called the D-Max Boondock.

If the name sounds familiar, this isn’t the first time Isuzu has used the “Boondock” moniker; it’s been used in the previous-generation D-Max in the early 2010’s. At the time, it was merely an aesthetics upgrade over the regular D-Max. This 2019 though, it looks like Isuzu has come up with a truly bad-ass truck that features both aesthetic and mechanical upgrades.

Compared to the PIMS show truck, the 2019 D-Max Boondock could possibly be the ultimate version of Isuzu’s pickup truck. Aesthetically, it gets fender extensions and rocker panels along with roof rails, steel step boards, a cargo height extender, and bedliner.

Even more impressive is that Isuzu’s managed to give the Boondock added presence thanks to new performance shock absorbers that bring up the ground clearance to 247 mm—up 12 mm from the standard D-Max. Additionally, it gets new off-road specific 17-inch alloy wheels with 265/70R17 all-terrain tires.

As for its engine, the 2019 D-Max Boondock is based off the 3.0-liter Blue Power model and thus, it shares the same 4JJ1-TCX engine making 177 horsepower and 380 Nm of torque. No news if it will be made available in both manual or automatic variants.

Isuzu hasn’t dropped any hints to the 2019 D-Max Boondock’s pricing yet, but given it’ll be the new flagship D-Max, expect it to be above the D-Max 3.0 LS 4x4’s P 1,700,000 price tag. Dealers are already taking reservations as early as now, but the official launch is slated by the end of the month.