FYI: BYD’s Shark, a plug-in hybrid electric pickup, is already making waves in Mexico, priced at less than half of a Tesla Cybertruck.
BYD Shark Takes a Bite Out of the Competition
BYD has stepped into the pickup truck arena with its first-ever model, the Shark. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) offers intriguing specifications and a competitive price point, particularly in Mexico where it’s sold for just $47,000. This is significantly cheaper compared to the American-made Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T. However, due to high import tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, the Shark isn’t available in the United States, where it would likely cost much more.
Powertrain and Performance
The BYD Shark is unique in its design. It features two electric motors that collectively produce around 430 horsepower. Complementing these motors is a high-voltage battery with a capacity of 29.5 kilowatt-hours. Additionally, the truck is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, functioning as a generator to extend the vehicle’s range. On electric power alone, it can travel approximately 62 miles, but when combined with the gasoline engine, the total range extends to about 520 miles.
Comparative Analysis: Shark vs Cybertruck and Rivian R1T
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Size and Capacity:
- The Shark is smaller than the Cybertruck and Rivian R1T, which impacts its bed size and overall utility.
- Towing capacity is a notable weak point, standing at 5,500 pounds. This is only half of what the Cybertruck offers.
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Build and Interior:
- BYD’s pickup stands out with its superior build quality, offering numerous switches and a less minimalist design compared to its American counterparts.
- The cabin features two screens and a head-up display, surpassing even the R1T in terms of display options.
- Utility Features:
- The truck includes three 110-volt outlets in the bed for powering tools or appliances, and it offers vehicle-to-load capability via an adapter for the charging port.
Charging and Efficiency
While the Shark supports DC fast charging, its peak charging rate is around 45 kW. This allows the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in roughly 20 minutes—a speedy process thanks to its relatively smaller battery compared to the Cybertruck and R1T.
The Reviewers’ Take
Reviewers from The Fast Lane EV highlighted the Shark’s exceptional build quality and its range advantage, thanks to the gasoline engine. However, they noted the vehicle’s bouncy ride and lower tow rating as areas where it lags behind its American competitors.
Conclusion
The BYD Shark is a compelling option for those in markets where it’s available, offering an appealing mix of range, build quality, and pricing. While it may not yet be ready to fully compete with the Tesla Cybertruck or Rivian R1T in terms of towing capacity and overall size, it’s a formidable entry in the growing PHEV truck segment.
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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
