2025 BYD Shark ute makes world debut

The all-new 2025 BYD Shark ute has been launched in Mexico ahead of its expected Australian arrival later this year, with key details confirmed including payload, towing and performance from its 320kW plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Shunning diesel power and to be a key competitor for the incoming Ford Ranger PHEV, the Chinese brand’s first foray into the big-selling 4x4 dual-cab ute segment features an advanced petrol-electric powertrain that blends a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder combustion engine with two electric motors – one on each axle – for a combined output of 321kW.

The petrol engine drives the front wheels and only accounts for about 20 per cent of total propulsion, according to BYD, leaving the electric motors as the dominant force, front and rear.

It’s enough, BYD says, to launch the dual-cab from 0-100km/h in just 5.7 seconds, making it significantly quicker than the Ford Ranger Raptor that currently leads the class at 6.1sec.

What’s more, the electric motors draw energy from a 29.5kWh version of BYD’s signature Blade lithium-ion battery, enabling a claimed electric-only driving range of up to 100km, based on China’s NEDC testing cycle.

Fuel economy will also be a key selling point, with BYD citing 7.5L/100km mileage for the Shark on the official combined cycle (NEDC) in hybrid mode, or as little as 1.5L/100km when taking full advantage of the EV range.

Total range on a full tank and full battery is said to be up to 840km.

When it comes to charging, the Shark’s battery can be topped up using a DC fast-charger at a rate of up to 40kW, with 20 minutes needed to replenish the pack from 30 to 80 per cent.

As we’ve already seen, the Shark has brash American-influenced styling clearly inspired by larger full-size pick-up trucks and class leaders in its mid-size segment like the Ford Ranger.

The Shark gets large BYD lettering across its grille and imposing vertical stacked headlights, which are linked by a full-width LED light bar.

The show cars unveiled in Mexico overnight all featured prominent bash plates, while at the rear there’s a sports bar, roof rails and vertical tail-lights that match the Shark’s front lamps and are also interlinked with a large LED light bar.

Created to be a global model, the BYD Shark is at the bigger end of the mid-size dual-cab category, measuring 5457mm long, 1971mm wide and standing 1924mm tall.

Like its major rivals, the Shark has a traditional ladder-frame chassis (in this case, the battery forms part of the structure), however it has emerged with an independent double-wishbone rear suspension – not a solid rear axle.

Launch specifications also show the Shark will only offer a payload of up to 835kg, while maximum braked towing capacity is 2500kg – a tonne short of the best in class.

Tray volume is quoted at 1450 litres, while the ute’s 3260mm wheelbase allows for generous cabin space. The rear bench seat in the dual-cab is also angled at 27 degrees for enhanced comfort.

Up front, the BYD Shark gets a centre console that’s said to be inspired by an aircraft. Brightening up the cabin, there’s lots of orange highlights, while the Shark comes with the same rotating 10.25-inch touch-screen infotainment system that offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other tech highlights include upgraded ‘Hey BYD’ voice control that enables the driver to lower the windows hands-free, change the temperature and access Spotify. You can also play games on the move, including karaoke.

Another handy feature not seen on the likes of the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux is the Shark’s vehicle-to-load capability, with the battery able to power lighting, tools etc.

For off-road driving, BYD offers a terrain response system with three modes – Mud, Sand and Snow – that pre-arm the all-wheel drive and stability/traction control systems for the conditions beneath.

At this stage, the BYD Shark will be offered in three colours: Palace White, Atlantis Grey and Marmara Black.

In Mexico, the Shark was launched in two variants – the base Shark GL, priced from $MX899,980 ($A80,500), while the flagship Shark GS costs $MX969,800 ($A85,500).

Stand by for Australian-market details as they come to hand.

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