BYD’s Camouflaged Off-Roader Spotted Charging in Sydney

As BYD edges past 60,000 vehicle sales in Australia, the brand appears ready to expand its local footprint with something bolder, off-road capable and premium.

Recently, a camouflaged SUV was spotted at Tesla’s V4 Supercharger station in Chatswood, Sydney. The mystery vehicle is believed to be the Bao 5, a rugged plug-in hybrid SUV from BYD’s off-road-focused sub-brand Fang Cheng Bao. The sighting hints at a possible local debut under the Denza premium badge.

▶️MORE: BYD Unveils the Tai 3: The Electric Off-Roader with a Drone Twist

A Look at the Bao 5

Launched in China in 2023, the Bao 5 quickly became a standout in BYD’s growing lineup of electrified vehicles. It combines serious off-road capability with a dual powertrain system that includes a 1.5L turbo petrol engine and dual electric motors.

Key Specifications of the Bao 5 (China Market Version):

Its drivetrain is built on the same DM-O platform used in the BYD Shark 6 ute. Both vehicles share a rugged profile, advanced torque control, and strong hybrid performance.

▶️MORE: BYD New Car Reviews, News, Models & Prices | zecar

Off-Road Focus Gaining Momentum

BYD launched the Fang Cheng Bao sub-brand in mid-2023 to capture the off-road SUV segment. The Bao 5 was its first model, and demand surged quickly with 10,000 orders in the first three days of launch. Within six months, over 20,000 units were sold in China.

In 2024, a larger sibling, the Bao 8, entered the market to target premium buyers seeking adventure-ready large SUVs. And in early 2025, the brand introduced the Tai 3, its first all-electric off-road model designed for family adventures. More recently, the Tai 7 has been teased as a mid-size EV SUV set to sit between the Bao 5 and Bao 8.

▶️MORE: BYD Shark Ute Revealed in Global Launch - Zecar

Fang Cheng Bao Model Timeline:

▶️MORE: Wild BYD Shark Footage Has Off-Road Fans Freaking …

Could It Launch in Australia?

The Bao 5’s recent sighting in Sydney could mark early-stage testing ahead of an official Australian debut. It may launch under BYD’s premium sub-brand Denza, which has been expanding globally. The presence of Fang Cheng Bao branding on the wheels, however, suggests the brand could make its own name in Australia.

Given Australia's appetite for rugged vehicles and rising interest in hybrid and electric SUVs, the Bao 5 might just fit the bill for drivers wanting off-road performance with lower emissions and a quieter drive.