If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you blended the practicality of a work ute with the performance of a sports car and the efficiency of an electric vehicle (EV), then the BYD Shark 6 might just be what you’d imagine.
This plug-in hybrid ute is setting a new standard in New Zealand’s traditionally diesel-dominated pickup market.
Performance that surpasses expectations
It’s fair to say that, as the first plug-in hybrid ute to hit kiwi shores, the BYD Shark 6 has made a strong impression. The Launch Edition Premium AWD model, which sits alongside heavyweights like the Ford Ranger Sport 2.0 and Toyota Hilux SR5 Cruiser, packs a punch with a combined power output of 321kW from its 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with dual electric motors.
The result? An impressive 650Nm of torque and acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.7 seconds – figures that might make even some sports cars envious.
But the Shark 6 is more than just a powerhouse on the road. It offers up to 100km of pure electric range and a combined range of 800km, making it a great option for long trips or city commutes. The towing capacity, while not matching diesel rivals at 2,500kg with trailer brakes, is still more than adequate for most needs.
Cutting-edge hybrid technology
At the heart of the Shark 6 is its Super Hybrid technology. This cutting-edge powertrain combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with dual electric motors, achieving performance akin to a 4.0L V8 engine but with far fewer emissions.
With the EHS (Electric Hybrid System) and a dedicated all-wheel-drive powertrain, it offers a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
The BYD Blade Battery, a lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) battery, ensures longer-lasting power, increased range, and improved safety compared to traditional designs. This battery technology makes the Shark 6 a true game-changer in the world of hybrid utes.
Plenty of tech
As you’d expect, the Shark 6 is packed with modern tech. The V2L (vehicle-to-load) function allows the ute to transform into a mobile power station, making it ideal for powering tools on job sites or providing electricity in off-grid locations.
Inside, the Shark 6 features an impressive 10.25-inch LCD instrument panel and a rotating 15.6-inch adaptive screen that provides a futuristic and intuitive driving experience. The cabin is designed with comfort in mind, offering heated, ventilated, and electrically adjustable front seats, as well as rear seats that recline by 27 degrees – a feature rarely seen in traditional utes.
Comfort
Beyond its performance, the Shark 6 doesn’t skimp on comfort. The interior blends luxury with utility, offering what you could say is a refined experience in a traditionally rugged segment, ensuring a comfortable ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out for an adventure.
Safety first
The Shark 6 integrates the ultra-high safety Blade Battery along with a high-strength steel frame, thanks to BYD’s CTC technology, ensuring occupants are protected in the event of a collision. The vehicle also comes with a range of advanced safety features, including hill hold control, vehicle dynamic control, and hill descent control, providing enhanced peace of mind for drivers.
Overall
The BYD Shark 6 is something entirely new for the New Zealand ute market, bridging the gap between traditional ute capability and the modern demand for hybrid efficiency.
While its towing capacity might not match that of its diesel counterparts, the Shark 6 offers impressive performance, genuine electric-only range, and a suite of innovative features that make it a compelling choice for city tradies, lifestyle buyers, and anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing utility.
Competitively priced against high-spec traditional utes, it delivers a sophisticated blend of power, technology, and efficiency that could very well reshape what people expect from a modern ute.
For those ready to embrace electrification without compromise, the Shark 6 is worth serious consideration.
Premium Launch Edition: $69,990
EV Range: Up to 100 km
Fuel Economy: 2.0/100km
Combined Range: Up to 800 km
Image credit:
Imagery from BYD.