(Motorsport-Total.com/Motor1) – With the Shark, BYD is sending its first pickup model to Europe. The 5.46-meter-long double cab relies on a plug-in hybrid, all-wheel drive, and an electric range of up to 90 kilometers. Instead of diesel routine, this is an attempt to combine a workhorse and an electric vehicle.
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The timing is right. At Goodwood, BYD is presenting its model offensive for Europe and introducing several new models from BYD, Denza, and Yangwang. The range extends from the Denza Z to the BAO 5 and the U9 Xtreme. The Shark now complements this program as a plug-in pickup.
Under the hood, a 1.5-liter turbo gasoline engine works together with two electric motors. The front electric motor produces 231 hp, the rear electric motor 204 hp. Together, this results in a power output of 436 hp and 650 Newton meters. The Shark features a ladder frame and double wishbones on the front and rear axles.
The gasoline engine mostly operates as a generator, while the electric motors handle propulsion. Depending on the driving situation, the Shark drives electrically, hybrid, or at higher speeds with combustion engine support. With the 32.2 kWh blade battery, the Shark stands out from the usual hybrid pickups.
Up to 90 kilometers of electric WLTP range and 675 kilometers total range sound very respectable for this vehicle class. According to BYD, the weighted consumption is 3.5 liters per 100 kilometers. When the battery is empty, the value should be 9.6 liters according to the data sheet.
Photo gallery: BYD Shark comes to Europe: 436 hp against Ranger & Hilux
When charging, the Shark proves to be practical for everyday use. At the 11 kW wall box, filling from 15 to 100 percent takes just over 3.2 hours; at the fast charging station with up to 55 kW, it goes from 30 to 80 percent in 21 minutes. V2L is also on board, meaning the ability to supply external consumers with power.
The Shark’s towing capacity is 2,500 kilograms, the payload 790 kilograms, and the loading area holds 1,200 liters. Added to this are driving modes for sand, mud, snow, and gravel as well as hill descent control. BYD does not necessarily want the Shark to be an off-road specialist but also does not want to be confined to asphalt.
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Inside, the Shark is more reminiscent of an SUV than a classic pickup. BYD installs a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a head-up display, a Dynaudio sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera, and a wireless charging function. The rear bench is also quite comfortable for a pickup.
In addition, there is a generous standard equipment package. However, prices for Germany have not yet been officially confirmed. BYD points out that the EU equipment will be announced in due course and that the market launch will initially take place in the United Kingdom.
We expect a starting price of under 60,000 euros for the Shark in Germany. This would place it in the same price range as well-equipped versions of the Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux.
In Europe, the BYD Shark faces well-known names like Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and VW Amarok, but also new Chinese rivals like the Maxus T60 and the BAW 212 pickup. With 436 hp, a large battery, and plenty of equipment, it takes a different technical path. Whether that is enough will probably be decided mainly by the price in the end.
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