What happens when you combine a practical work ute with a performance sports car and an efficient EV? Our BYD Shark 6 review reveals all…
Ever wondered what would happen if you combined the practicality of a work ute with the performance of a sports car and the efficiency of an EV?
That’s exactly what I found myself thinking about the new BYD Shark 6, a plug-in hybrid ute that’s set to make waves in New Zealand’s traditionally diesel-dominated pickup market.
It’s faster than a Ford Ranger Raptor and cheaper to lease and operate 😲
Let’s hop into my personal BYD Shark 6 review…
A Different Kind of Beast
The BYD Shark 6 Launch Edition Premium AWD sits in familiar territory alongside traditional favourites like the Ford Ranger Sport 2.0 and Toyota Hilux SR5 Cruiser.
But that’s where the similarities end.
Under its muscular exterior lies a revolutionary powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors, delivering a staggering 321kW of combined power and 650Nm of torque.
The Numbers That Matter
Let’s talk performance: this hybrid hauler sprints from 0-100km/h in just 5.7 seconds – numbers that would make some sports cars blush.
But perhaps more importantly, it offers up to 100km of pure electric range and a combined range of 800km.
The Shark 6 can tow up to 2,500kg with trailer brakes, and while that’s a little less than conventional diesel utes, it’s still plenty capable for most users.
Living with the Shark
Inside, BYD has created something special. The cabin feels more premium SUV than workhorse ute, featuring a 10.25-inch LCD instrument panel and a clever 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen.
The spaceship-inspired console is a refreshing change from the traditional cabin that ute drivers experience, and the build quality feels impressively durable.
Tech that Works
One feature that particularly impressed me is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function. With power outlets in the tray, you can run everything from power tools to a coffee machine – making this ute a genuine mobile workspace.
The Premium specification includes practical touches like ventilated and heated front seats, head-up display, and privacy glass.
Off-Road Credentials
While some might question the off-road capability of a hybrid ute, BYD has equipped the Shark 6 with serious hardware.
The DMO (Dual Motor Off-road) system includes specific modes for Mud, Sand, and Snow conditions.
With an approach angle of 31 degrees and ground clearance of 230mm, it’s ready for adventure.
The double wishbone suspension front and rear is very sophisticated for a ute, and it delivers impressive stability both on and off-road.
Real-World Efficiency
Fuel consumption is where things get interesting. When operating with 25-100% battery charge, the BYD Shark 6 sips just 2.0L/100km.
Even when the battery drops below 25%, consumption only rises to 7.9L/100km – still super impressive for a vehicle of this size and capability.
The 29.58kWh Blade Battery can be charged via AC (up to 7kW) or DC (up to 50kW) charging.
Safety First
The safety package is comprehensive, including advanced features like autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and a 360-degree camera system.
The Premium model also includes adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition – features that make long journeys much more relaxing.
BYD Shark 6 Review Verdict
The BYD Shark 6 represents something new in New Zealand’s ute market. It’s a vehicle that successfully bridges the gap between traditional ute capability and modern hybrid efficiency.
While the 2,500kg towing capacity might not match diesel rivals, the combination of impressive performance, genuine electric-only range, and innovative features makes it a compelling alternative for people who want to embrace electrification without sacrificing utility [pun intended].
It’s competitively priced against high-spec traditional utes, offering a sophisticated blend of performance, technology and efficiency that could well reshape expectations of what a modern ute can be.
For city tradies, lifestyle buyers, or anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining genuine utility, the BYD Shark 6 ute deserves serious consideration.
The future of utes might just have sharp teeth after all.
