BYD Shark ute confirmed for October launch

Electrified utes promise to revolutionise the way people work and play – and they’ll be here much sooner than you think.

China’s BYD is set to win the race to sell a plug-in hybrid ute in Australia by launching the new Shark locally next month.

The BYD Shark will go on sale in Australia from October 29, well ahead of the Ford Ranger Stormtrak and GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra pick-ups due to arrive in 2025.

2024 BYD Shark plug-in hybrid ute. Photo: Supplied

All three utes look set to go on sale before the April 1 deadline for plug-in hybrid vehicles to be eligible for the Federal Government's EV discount that allows people to lease green cars without paying fringe benefits tax.

It could make next-generation hybrid utes cheaper to lease than diesel counterparts.

At least for a few months.

The Shark promises to shake up the ute segment with a strong 320kW of power – more than double that of the average diesel ute – thanks to a tiny 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine mated to a pair of powerful electric motors.

2024 BYD Shark plug-in hybrid ute. Photo: Supplied

The combination is good for a sub-six second sprint to 100km/h.

A 29.5kWh battery helps the car return impressive fuel economy, as well as the ability to send power to electric appliances.

Interior features include a huge central touchscreen with smart voice assistance.

Sophisticated suspension promises to deliver a car-like driving experience.

But it can’t match the 3.5 tonne towing capacity of class-leading dual-cab utes.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen and BYD chief executive David Smitherman with the BYD Shark. Photo: Supplied

Australian prices for the machine have not been confirmed, but you shouldn’t expect that tech to come cheaply.

BYD’s Australian boss, David Smitherman, said the car represents a significant development for Australian motorists.

0-60 mph in 5.7s. All-new plug-in hybrid pickup. BYD SHARK. pic.twitter.com/gEOGW1S1oU

— BYD (@BYDCompany) May 23, 2024

“The BYD Shark, with its pioneering electric-platform hybrid technology, represents a significant moment in the history of automotive innovation,” he said.

“Wherever it goes, the Shark has been turning heads.

“The ute segment is a key market in Australia and BYD is committed to helping Aussies in the new energy transition. Since we opened expressions of interest for the Shark, we have been inundated with thousands of people registering interest for this vehicle.”

Smitherman, gave Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen a tour of the pick-up truck this week.

“We thank the Minister, and the Australian Government for their ongoing support of the new energy sector,” he said.

“We look forward to Australian drivers enjoying their own Shark experience very soon.”

Originally published as BYD Shark ute confirmed for October launch