2024 BYD Shark: A Game-Changing Plug-In Hybrid Pickup Truck

Chinese giant BYD unveiled its first pickup truck, dubbed Shark, at an exclusive event in Mexico City. The 2024 BYD Shark is a midsize truck with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that can cover over 500 miles. This was the first time the automaker had a global debut outside of China, which speaks to the importance that Mexico plays for its future—despite all the controversy going on with the emergence of Chinese EVs in North America.

The Shark is slated to compete against the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado, as well as Toyota Hilux and Nissan Navara in global markets. While BYD doesn’t sell cars in the U.S., the Shark could make a significant impact around the world, particularly in the booming pickup segment in Latin America and Asia. For the time being, the truck will be produced in China, although the automaker plans to reveal the location of its plant in Mexico in the upcoming months, potentially including the Shark among its vehicles.

Masculine Design

Penned by Wolfgang Egger, BYD’s global design director with previous experience at Alfa Romeo, Audi, and Lamborghini, the Shark boasts a bold overall design characterized by masculine and boxy lines. Its aesthetics closely resemble those of the Ford F-150 Lightning, featuring squared headlights, taillights, and a pronounced light bar spanning the front and rear.

BYD claims the design draws inspiration from the ocean predator after which it is named, although the connection isn’t immediately apparent. Features such as the front rocker panel, wide wheel arches, and raised beltline contribute to its imposing presence while avoiding excessive chrome to enhance its rugged charm. With a wheelbase of 128.3 inches, it aligns well with other midsize trucks, offering solid proportions ideal for off-road capability.

Inside, BYD utilized vibrant colors to accentuate various design elements. The rectangular air vents and toggle switches in the center console boast orange accents, while contrast stitching adorns the seats, dashboard, and door panels. A prominent shifter captures attention in the center console, and a tray on the front passenger dashboard accommodates items like wallets or keys.

The centerpiece of the interior is a 12.8-inch rotative screen, akin to those featured in the BYD Yuan Plus and Seal. The screen operates in both portrait and landscape mode, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A secondary 10.25-inch screen provides the driver with critical information, while a 12-inch head-up display showcases speed and navigation directions.

In terms of technology, drivers can now utilize NFC technology to lock, unlock, and start their Shark using an iPhone or Android phone. Additionally, an NFC card and physical key will be provided upon purchase.

How’s its Capability?

Powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, the 2024 BYD Shark delivers a combined output of 430 hp. While torque figures remain unspecified, BYD states that the plug-in hybrid truck boasts a towing capacity of 5,511 pounds (2,500 kg) and a payload capacity of 1,841 pounds (835 kg). Moreover, the Shark accelerates from 0-62 mph in a swift 5.7 seconds.

Thanks to its 30-kWh blade battery, the Shark offers an EV-only range of 62 miles. It can achieve up to 528 miles with a full tank and fully charged battery, surpassing other midsize pickup trucks in America, hybrids included. Although classified as a PHEV, the Shark supports fast charging via its CCS1 port. While specific charging speeds weren’t disclosed, BYD representatives mentioned that the truck can be charged from 20 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes, which, while not the fastest, is still favorable.

Featuring BYD’s Dual Mode Off-Road chassis, the Shark provides an intelligent all-wheel drive system, integrating a “virtual” differential designed to minimize wheel slip. Three distinct off-road modes are available: Sand, Snow, and Mud.

We will need to get behind the wheel to evaluate how the Shark’s capabilities stack up against other contenders in the midsize truck segment.

Like other EVs in the market, the Shark can serve as a power source for various devices, such as farming or construction tools, or electric grills during a camping trip. Owners will have the convenience of remote access to the truck’s interior to perform tasks such as activating the AC, lowering windows, or unlocking doors.

How Much Does It Cost?

Although the 2024 BYD Shark won’t be available in the American market, it will be sold south of the border at an estimated starting price of $53,440, based on current exchange rates. Two versions will be offered, both featuring the same powertrain—GL and GS. While BYD did not elaborate on the distinctions between the two models, it is presumed that differences lie within the equipment and interior features of the Shark. The 2024 BYD Shark is slated for release in Mexico within the coming weeks, with reservations already accepted.

On-location images provided by Autoanalítica.