SPY PICS: 2024 BYD ute testing continues

BYD’s incoming ute has been again spotted testing in China ahead of its anticipated Australian launch in early 2024.

The latest camouflaged images have surfaced on Car News China, showing fresh angles of the still-to-be-named 2024 BYD dual-cab that reinforce its boxy, American-influenced styling and short front overhangs.

The ute is expected to be offered with either 4x2 or 4x4 drivelines and the choice between full-electric power and an advanced plug-in hybrid.

Overseas reports suggest the PHEV will blend a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine with single and dual electric motor configurations, the former offering about 130kW while the latter should pump out as much as 375kW.

Dual-motor versions are also expected to offer an all-electric range of up to 100km.

There’s no word on power output for battery-electric models, but expect the single-motor/rear-drive powertrain to come with at least 200kW and the dual-motor/AWD to produce upwards of 400kW.

The EV versions are set for smoother styling to maximise range, while other details from the latest spy shots include pop-out door handles and aerodynamically-honed wheel covers.

Inside, the images reveal that the BYD ute will get a large centrally mounted screen.

Set to be introduced at the Chengdu motor show in September, Chinese deliveries of the new ute should kick off in the final quarter. An Australian launch is expected early next year.

The Chinese car-maker said last year that it would launch as many as six new models here by the end of 2023, by which time it should have built up a wide-ranging retail network.

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