BYD continues to expand its presence in the European market with a model that breaks the mold of its current lineup. The Chinese automaker has confirmed the arrival of the BYD Shark, its first-ever pickup truck , a vehicle that embraces plug-in hybrid technology to compete in a segment traditionally dominated by diesel. With a double cab and five seats, the Shark aims to offer the best of both worlds: the robustness of a work vehicle and the comfort of a family SUV.
The new model was originally launched in Mexico just over a year ago and is now making its way to Europe. According to Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD, “We are delighted to bring plug-in hybrid technology to the pickup segment with the Shark .” She emphasized that the DMO (Dual Mode Off-road) system allows for electric-only driving, offers best-in-class power and excellent off-road capabilities, as well as outstanding efficiency for long distances.
Interior and technological equipment are well resolved…
The cabin breaks with the spartan image of traditional pickups. BYD has designed an interior that aims for SUV-like comfort, with heated and ventilated front seats , a 10,25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 15,6-inch central touchscreen for the infotainment system. The gear selector is located on the steering column, and the physical controls are large enough to be used even with gloves. In the rear seats, the floor is completely flat and offers almost 90 cm of legroom, with a 27-degree reclining seatback that improves comfort on long journeys. A head-up display and hill descent control are also included as standard.
All-terrain and cargo capabilities…
The BYD Shark is ready to confidently tackle off-road terrain. Its intelligent all-wheel drive adapts power delivery to four modes : sand, mud, snow, and gravel. The independent double wishbone suspension on both axles combines off-road capability with on-road comfort. The approach and departure angles are 31 degrees and 19,3 degrees, with a ground clearance of 230 mm unloaded (210 mm with maximum load). In terms of practicality, the cargo bed offers 1.200 liters of volume, a maximum payload of 790 kg, and a towing capacity of 2.500 kg. The maximum authorized mass is 3.500 kg, and the curb weight is 2.710 kg.
Technical features and specifications…
The Shark measures 5.457 mm long, 1.971 mm wide, and 1.925 mm high, with a wheelbase of 3.260 mm. Its plug-in hybrid pickup uses a ladder frame chassis adapted to integrate the battery using Cell-to-Chassis technology , which increases torsional rigidity and protects the cells during off-road driving . Its PHEV system combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 150 hp with two electric motors, one per axle, to develop 436 hp and 650 Nm of torque. This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5,7 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 km/h. Typically, the combustion engine acts as a generator, powering the electric motors or recharging the battery, although it can also directly propel the vehicle at high speeds when more efficient.
Available electric range and charging capacity…
The Blade lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery has a capacity of 32,2 kWh and allows the Shark to travel up to 90 kilometers in electric mode according to the WLTP cycle. The total range, including the 60-liter gasoline tank, reaches 675 kilometers. The official combined fuel consumption is 3,5 l/100 km, while with a depleted battery it rises to 9,6 l/100 km. Regarding charging, the Shark accepts AC charging at 11 kW and DC charging at 55 kW , allowing it to go from 30% to 80% charge in just 21 minutes. It also features a 6 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function with two power outlets, ideal for powering tools or leisure equipment from within the vehicle.
Arrival in Europe and rivals to beat…
BYD plans to launch the Shark in major European countries later this year, although it has not yet revealed the official price for Spain. It is expected to be priced similarly to its direct competitors, such as the Ford Ranger PHEV (starting at around €46.000) and the Santana 400 PHEV (starting at around €54.000) , both also plug-in hybrids. With this offering, BYD strengthens its electrified lineup and provides an alternative to traditional diesel pickups, combining the DGT's ZERO emissions label with performance and capabilities that make it a versatile option for both professionals and individuals with an active lifestyle.
The BYD Shark arrives in Europe with a proposition that blends the functionality of a pickup truck with plug-in hybrid technology, offering 436 hp, 90 km of electric range, a 1.200-liter cargo bed, and an interior designed for everyday comfort. Its arrival is expected in the coming months, and it promises to challenge established diesel models, although price will be key to its success in a market where the electrification of commercial vehicles is progressing gradually.
Source – BYD by Newspress Spain
Images | BYD
