BYD’s new rugged, plug-in-hybrid pickup is aimed at the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger.
The all-new BYD Shark pickup truck will make its global debut at the upcoming Beijing motor show. Leaked pictures confirm that the Shark pickup from BYD gets boxy looks with rugged design cues that make it look similar to the Ford Ranger sold globally. The name “Shark” is in line with BYD’s “Ocean Series” line-up of cars and SUVs that also includes the Seal sedan, the Seal U SUV and the Dolphin hatchback.
- BYD Shark will get PHEV powertrain initially
- Gets a double-cab passenger cabin
- Will be sold in right and left hand drive markets
BYD Shark pickup will be a global offering
Along with unveiling its marketing name, BYD announced the truck will introduce a new plug-in hybrid powertrain called DMO (dual-mode off-road) that’s said to optimise off-road performance. It has yet to confirm technical specifications for the powertrain, but it’s expected to offer four-wheel drive and performance competitive with pure-ICE rivals such as the Toyota Hilux.
For reference, BYD’s existing DM-i PHEV powertrain (used in the Seal U SUV) features a 107hp, 1.5-litre petrol engine, a 197hp electric motor and an 18.3kWh battery pack. There will be a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine too, along with the same electric motor setup. BYD has yet to confirm whether the Shark will also be offered with a pure battery-electric powertrain.
The BYD Shark will be built in China for domestic as well as export markets. Left and right hand drive models will be built simultaneously, and exports are set to begin immediately after its launch in China.
BYD Shark: exterior, interior highlights
As far as styling goes, the double-cab body style will be standard on the Shark; the slab-sided design also resembles the Ford Ranger to some extent. The wraparound DRL setup upfront also mimic’s the Ford. Inside, it gets the same 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen as in the BYD Atto 3, Dolphin and Seal electric cars, which is capable of rotating to display in either portrait or landscape orientations.
BYD line-up in India
BYD currently sells the Atto 3 SUV, the E6 MPV and the recently launched Seal sedan in India. Click here to know more about the Seal.
Also see:
BYD Atto 3 gets larger touchscreen, new colours overseas
BYD Seal EV receives 200 bookings