Build Your Dream (BYD) is the world's biggest electric car maker and has been in South Africa for over a year now. What the brand often forgets to mention is that it's not its all-electric products that truly drive its success, but rather its hybrids! South Africa is yet to see the brand's hybrid technology, but that is set to change in March, when the Shark 6, a hybrid bakkie, will launch within the local market!
Powertrain
Under the bonnet, the BYD Shark 6 boasts a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine paired with dual electric motors. The system delivers a potent 321kW/650Nm, allowing for an impressive 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 5.7 seconds and a claimed fuel consumption figure of 2.0L/100km when the state of charge (SoC) is sufficient. The hybrid system provides a WLTP range of 670 km, with a claimed 100km of all-electric range from the 29.6 kWh battery.
Off-Road Ability
The Shark 6 has the brand's Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) system, which is a drive mode selector similar to key rivals. It also features a double-wishbone rear suspension system, meaning it will be compromised in overall carrying capacity, but is likely to offer a better ride quality than most bakkies.
| Ground clearance | 230mm |
| Approach angle (degrees) | 31 |
| Break-over angle (degrees) | 17 |
| Departure angle (degrees) | 19 |
| Wading depth | 700mm |
The figures
Bakkies need to be able to carry and tow, and here are the Shark's key metrics. The load bed is smaller than that of the Ford Ranger, and it cannot to or carry as much as the Ford.
| Braked towing capacity | 2500kg |
| Payload | 790kg |
| Load bed size | 1520x1500x517 (1200-litres) |
V2L and Regenerative Braking
The Shark features what the brand calls the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, which allows the bakkie to supply power to external devices. This makes it ideal for camping trips, outdoor work sites, or even emergency power supply situations. Regenerative braking further enhances efficiency, capturing energy during deceleration and feeding it back into the battery.
Price and Availability
The BYD Shark 6 is set to launch in South Africa in March 2025, and its price tag is expected to remain below R1 million. We will be driving the newcomer soon, so be on the lookout for our review!
