BYD Shark Ute Revealed in Global Launch

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The highly anticipated BYD Shark Ute has been unveiled in a global launch event in Mexico City. The Shark is built on the company’s DMO (Dual Mode Offroad) platform and is powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

The Shark pickup truck is positioned as a premium offering within BYD's Ocean family of EVs, aimed at younger, tech-savvy consumers. It shares its platform with the Bao 5, a luxury off-road SUV, suggesting a focus on high performance and advanced technology. This global push comes as BYD seeks to expand beyond its dominant position in China and establish itself as a major player on the world stage.

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Size and Chassis

The BYD shark measures 5,457 mm in length, 1,971 mm in width and 1,925 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,260 mm. By comparison this makes it slightly larger than both the the popular Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux in every dimension.

The Shark has a payload rating of 835kg, a rear tray capacity of 1450L, and a 2500kg tow rating. For off-road driving, it rides on 282mm of ground clearance and extensive underbody protection.

The Dual Mode Off-road (DMO) Super Hybrid Platform boasts multiple innovative features including the Cell to Chassis (CTC) technology, which enables the ideal balance between vehicle safety, powerful off-roading, and energy consumption.

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Key Specifications: Range, Charging

The BYD Shark drivetrain is underpinned by BYD's proprietary DM-i (Dual Motor Intelligence).

The DMi-i is a variation of a PHEV technology which can operate in three power supply modes:

• Pure EV Mode - In Pure EV Mode, the wheels are 100% driven by the electric motor for an all-electric drive experience, with the engine on standby.
• HEV Series Mode - When the battery falls below a set state-of-charge, the engine acts as a generator charging the battery, the wheels are driven by the electric motor, making HEV mode the ideal companion for extending range.
• HEV Parallel Mode - The wheels are driven by both the electric motor and the engine.

On average BYD claim the car will be powered by the electric motor in 90% of driving conditions.

The Shark comes equipped with from dual motors capable of a combined 320kW in power and 650Nm of torque. The front motor generates 170 kW and 310 Nm of torque, while the rear motor adds 150 kW and 340 Nm of torque. This results in swift acceleration, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds. The top speed is listed at 160 km/h.

The 30kWh battery provides a pure electric range of 100km (based on the NEDC) or ~80km based on the WLTP standard. The electric only range should be sufficient to cover most daily trips in Australia (40km/day).

The combined NEDC range in hybrid mode is 840km. Additionally, the hybrid system offers a fuel efficiency of 7.5 litres per 100km.

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Key Technology and Features

The interior features a range of high-tech amenities similar to what we are accustomed to in the BYD EV range. Features include a 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, a large 12.8-inch central touchscreen, and a 12-inch head-up display (HUD) for easy access to information. Connectivity is well-covered with support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Available technology features include a 360-degree camera system, head-up display, wireless smartphone charging, air purification system, and Apple CarPlay for iPhone users. Owners can also use a smartphone app to remotely control cabin temperature and charging.

The Shark is also expected to feature vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology which will enable power tools and appliances to be powered from the truck's 30 kWh battery pack.

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BYD Shark Price

The BYD Shark will launch in two trims:

• Shark GL - 899,980 pesos (A$80,641/$53,442)
• Premium Shark GS - 969,800 pesos ($A86,697/$57,589)

By comparison, the BYD Seal Premium RWD sells in Mexico for 778,800 pesos (A$69,782). In Australia the same model sells for A$58,798.

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What's Next for the BYD Shark?

The Shark’s debut in Mexico City is significant as it’s BYD’s first product launch outside of China. While BYD doesn't currently have a manufacturing facility in Mexico, there rumors have been swirling that one will eventually be built. Though tariffs have limited Chinese-made vehicles such as BYD from entering the US, with a few exceptions from Volvo, GM, and Ford. BYD and other chinese automakers have been making inroads into Latin American markets.

The BYD Shark will launch in Australia in the 2nd half of 2024. A fully electric version of the BYD Shark is also expected to launch eventually.