The BYD Sharka plug-in hybrid ute, was launched overnight at an event in Mexico City.
Based on the company’s DMO (Dual Off-Road Mode) platform, the Shark features a plug-in hybrid drivetrain consisting of a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, an electric motor and a special Blade battery pack. company logo.
The 320kW plug-in hybrid powertrain includes a 170kW/310Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine driving the front wheels and a 150kW/340Nm electric motor at the rear.
Stepping on the metal, the Shark can complete the 0-100km/h standard in 5.7 seconds.
Equipped with a standard 30kWh battery pack, the BYD Shark is said to have an electric-only range of 100km under the older, more generous NEDC testing protocol. Shark supports DC fast charging up to 40kW.
In hybrid mode, the Shark is said to have fuel consumption in Mexico of 7.5L/100km. Starting with a fully charged battery, overall fuel consumption is said to be 1.5L/100km and total range is said to be 850km.
The truck can be used as a power source for accessories as well as the entire house.
An all-electric version is expected to launch at a later date. From 2022, BYD only sells pure electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
BYD says the Shark has a load capacity of 835kg, a rear tray with a capacity of 1450L and a towing capacity of 2500kg. For off-road driving, the Shark has 282mm of ground clearance as well as extensive underbody protection.
Inside, the Shark’s dashboard features a 10.25-inch gauge display and a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen that can rotate between portrait and landscape orientation. Built-in apps include Spotify and karaoke with recording mode, the latter of which BYD speakers spent a lot of time introducing.
The center tunnel is said to be inspired by an airplane cockpit, with the gear lever surrounded by a series of dials and switches.
Available technology features include a 360-degree camera system, head up display, wireless smartphone charging, air filtration system and wireless key functionality for Apple iPhone users.
A smartphone app allows owners to remotely control cabin heating and cooling as well as charge the battery.
The company’s choice of Mexico City for the Shark launch is interesting as this is the company’s first product launch outside of China.
Currently BYD does not have a manufacturing facility in Mexico, although there are rumors that it is considering building one.
Aside from some Volvo, GM and Ford vehicles, tariffs have largely blocked Chinese-made vehicles from entering the US, but Chinese automakers and Chinese-made cars are making inroads into the markets. across Latin America.
