BYD Shark Pickup Lecture Notes

Jul 25, 2024

BYD Shark Pickup Overview

General Information

  • BYD has been teasing their midsize pickup, the BYD Shark, for a few months.
  • Popularity of pickups in various regions: Southeast Asia, Australia, South America, and a little in Europe.
  • Preference in North America for pickup trucks; Mexico prefers cheaper, smaller options.
  • Notable emergence of Chinese-made pickups in the market.

Vehicle Features

  • Type: Plug-in hybrid (PHEV) using both gasoline and electricity.
  • Design: Gas cap and an electric vehicle plug.

Comparison with Other Electrified Pickups

  1. Rivian R1T

    • Battery electric, more premium than BYD Shark.
    • All electric.
    • Efficient energy use; better all-electric range compared to BYD Shark.

  2. Ford Ranger PHEV

    • Plug-in version available outside North America.
    • Both gas and electric plug (similar to BYD Shark).
    • Traditional PHEV design; gas engine drives wheels with an added electric motor.

  3. Toyota Tacoma Hybrid

    • Combustion engine truck, with a small electric motor for increased power and fuel economy.
    • Uses gasoline only, lacks a plug-in feature.

Technical Specifications

  • Powertrain:
    • Front wheels powered by a combination of gas engine and electric motor.
    • Rear wheels powered solely by an electric motor.
    • BYD calls this a longitudinal electric hybrid system.
    • Built on the DMO platform (Dual Mode Gas and Electric, Off-road).
    • Integrates battery pack into frame structure for increased rigidity.
    • Uses BYD's blade battery design (lithium iron phosphate).
  • Performance:
    • Combined output: > 430 horsepower.
    • Acceleration: 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds.
  • Efficiency:
    • Claims better fuel efficiency than Toyota Tacoma Hybrid.
    • EPA tests not utilized for BYD claims; numbers may be inflated.
    • DC fast-charging capability using CCS type plug.

Exterior Design

  • Rugged and functional appearance.
  • Features:
    • Large, pronounced BYD logo (the mega symbol).
    • Skid plates, squared off wheel openings, and functional black plastic accents.
    • Roll bar back for securing payload, increasing rear blind spot.
    • Roof rails for added utility.
    • Integrated tailgate features: LED light accent bar and foldout step.
  • Gives a vibe similar to GMC design.

Interior Features

  • Premium interior with dark leather and orange stitching.
  • Display:
    • 12.8 inch central display that can rotate.
    • 10.25 inch driver display and available heads-up display.
  • Supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Voice commands and music capabilities (karaoke support).
  • Safety:
    • Meets/exceeds safety requirements in Mexico.
    • Testing in the European NCAP.

Pricing

  • Estimated cost: 900,000 pesos (~$53,500 USD for the base GL).
  • Variations in pricing due to taxes and logistics; more expensive in Mexico than in the US.
  • Comparison to Toyota Tacoma pricing in respective regions.
  • Note on potential US import tariffs on Chinese-made EVs; availability may vary outside Mexico.

Conclusion

  • The BYD Shark represents an innovative entry into the pickup market, particularly appealing in regions that value hybrid technology and rugged utility.

Note: Make sure to evaluate specific market conditions and tariffs before considering a purchase.

Remember: Safety and regulatory compliance are key factors to consider when assessing new vehicles from manufacturers like BYD.