BYD reveals plug-in hybrid Shark ute
BY MATT BROGAN | 16th May 2024
BYD has finally revealed its Shark utility, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model based on the company’s DMO (or Dual Motor Offroad) platform.
Australian BYD distributor EVDirect says the Shark is due in local showrooms before the end of 2024, beating the Ford Ranger PHEV to market by a matter of months.
Combining a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with electric propulsion, the latter supplied by a 30kW ‘Blade’ battery pack which forms part of the vehicle’s structure and provides an claimed electric-only range of 100km.
The combination is good for 316kW (total system power), the petrol engine contributing 170kW/310Nm at the front wheels, and the 150kW/340Nm electric motor driving the rear.
BYD says the figures are sufficient to accelerate the Shark from standstill to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds – quicker than the Ford Ranger Raptor.
Using superseded – and often optimistic – NEDC test cycles, the BYD Shark is quoted as offering a combined petrol/electric driving range of 850km, the average combined fuel consumption rating listed at 1.5 litres per 100km (and 7.5 litres per 100km thereafter). Fast DC charging is supported at up to 40kW.
Like others of its kind – including the forthcoming Ford Ranger PHEV – the BYD Shark offers V2L (vehicle-to-load) capabilities, allowing job- or camp-site power on demand.
The vehicle measures closely in size to the GWM Cannon Alpha, being larger than a Ford Ranger, but smaller than an F-150. The Shark is 5457mm in length, 1971mm in width, 1925mm in height and rides on a 3260mm wheelbase.
BYD says the model offers a payload rating of 835kg, and a towing capacity of up to 2500kg. It is also endowed with off-road specs that seem to match many diesel-powered dual-cab utilities currently offered, with all independent suspension, ground clearance of 282mm, extensive underbody bash plates and a three-mode terrain management system.
While full specifications and features are yet to be confirmed for individual markets, the BYD Shark featured at the global debut in Mexico sports 18-inch alloy wheels, side steps, a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.8-inch infotainment array – and which can be flipped between portrait and landscape modes – and an aircraft-inspired central console with multiple dials and toggle switches.
Other technology highlights include a 360-degree camera system, air purification system, head-up display, LED lighting, wireless device charging, and Apple Key functionality.
Connected services mean the vehicle may be heated or cooled prior to entry and started remotely. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard, as is a karaoke mode with in-built recording function.
Safety technologies are extensive with six airbags, adaptive cruise control, AEB, blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist and centring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Pricing and full specification details will be announced in due course.
