Chinese automotive giant BYD has confirmed that its plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Shark 6 ute will remain petrol-assisted for the foreseeable future despite the brand’s growing electric vehicle (EV) lineup.
In a statement to Australian media, BYD’s Asia Pacific sales general manager, Liu Xueliang, explained that a fully electric version of the Shark 6 is off the table for now, citing the current advantages of its PHEV system.
BYD’s focus on PHEV technology stems from a belief that plug-in hybrids provide a practical balance between performance and efficiency in the ute segment.
“Currently, we haven’t considered a pure-electric version,” Liu stated, emphasising that the existing PHEV setup aligns well with their goals.
“Based on performance and range, we feel like currently PHEV is best for Shark 6. We believe PHEVs are equivalent to electric cars.”
Though BYD’s Australian distributor CEO, David Smitherman, expressed optimism about a future EV version, he noted it’s not an immediate priority.
Smitherman highlighted BYD’s intent to diversify its offerings across market segments, adding, “If we want to be serious in this market, we need to have a product in every segment.”
Scheduled for New Zealand customer delivery in late 2024 or early 2025, the Shark 6 will debut with a unique hybrid powertrain. It combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors and a 29.58kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack. This setup produces a total output of 321kW and 650Nm, delivering power to all four wheels.
The Shark 6 boasts an electric-only range of 100km (NEDC) and claims fuel efficiency as low as 2.0L/100km when operating as a hybrid. Its emissions are also competitive, with BYD reporting just 46g of CO₂ per km. Only one model will be available in New Zealand - the top-spec Premium - which will be sold from $69,990.
While electric utes continue to emerge in various markets, BYD’s cautious approach with the Shark 6 reflects a preference for proven hybrid technology in segments where extended range and flexibility are essential.