On May 15th at midnight Beijing time, BYD unveiled its first pickup truck model – the BYD SHARK (Shark) – in Mexico, offering two configurations. The GL version is priced at 899,980 Mexican pesos (approximately RMB 386,700), while the GS version costs 969,800 Mexican pesos (approximately RMB 416,700).
Built on BYD’s DMO Super Hybrid Off-road platform, the SHARK is equipped with a 1.5T engine, dual-motor four-wheel drive system, and virtual differential locks, demonstrating commendable off-road capabilities. Currently, the SHARK is only available for sale in regions such as the Americas and Australia, with no immediate plans for a domestic release in China.
Exterior design adopts a rugged style, featuring square-shaped headlights and a front-daytime running light, exuding a strong and robust appearance. The front bumper includes a silver-trimmed guard that provides additional protection during off-road adventures.
The vehicle comes with black wheel arches, roof racks, and a roll bar, with the cargo bed coated in black scratch-resistant material, boasting a capacity of 1450 liters and equipped with power outlets for outdoor appliance use.
Measuring 5457mm in length, 1971mm in width, 1925mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 3260mm, the truck offers approach and departure angles of 31° and 19.3° respectively, along with a ground clearance of 210mm when fully loaded, ensuring good off-road traversal.
Inside, it features a new four-spoke steering wheel, a floating 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, BYD’s signature 12.8-inch rotatable central touchscreen, and a 12-inch HUD display.
The SHARK’s cabin integrates design elements from the BYD Seals, including the iconic retractable electronic gear lever, physical buttons, and a wireless charging pad. The minimalist interior design incorporates orange accents in the air vents, with extensive orange stitching across the dashboard, door panels, and seats.
Central tunnel and A-pillar grab handles reinforce the interior’s robust feel, complemented by six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with heating and ventilation, smartphone remote control capability, six airbags, and L2 driver assistance systems.
The infotainment system supports smart voice commands, 540° panoramic view, in-car karaoke, and is the first BYD model to support Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, showcasing BYD’s adaptation to overseas market demands through software customization.
Powering the SHARK is a 1.5T engine paired with dual motors (170kW front and 150kW rear), achieving a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 5.7 seconds. It features double wishbone suspension on both ends and a virtual differential lock for intelligent torque distribution based on terrain.
Equipped with a 29.58kWh Blade Battery, it offers a pure electric NEDC range of 100km and a combined range of 840km, with fuel consumption rated at 1.536L/100km in full charge mode and 7.5L/100km in low battery mode.
Addressing the high fuel consumption issue common in traditional high-horsepower pickup trucks, the plug-in hybrid BYD SHARK significantly reduces this concern, maintaining efficiency even when the battery is depleted.
Summary
BYD’s Shark pickup is positioned at a premium level, targeting recreational users rather than commercial applications. With a smaller target audience in China, BYD’s decision to debut the model in Mexico signals its intention to penetrate Latin American and other pickup markets.
The SHARK’s standout feature is its plug-in hybrid system, offering improved fuel efficiency and external power supply capabilities not found in conventional fuel pickups, likely to pique the interest of overseas consumers. The question remains: Do you think the BYD Shark will make its way to the Chinese market?