The BYD Shark, a new plug-in hybrid pick-up truck, has entered the UK market offering a blend of off-road capability and electric driving range. Priced at £47,295 including VAT, the vehicle combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with two electric motors—one on each axle—delivering a total output of 436 horsepower. Its 32kWh battery supports an electric-only range of approximately 50 miles, while the combined driving range reaches up to 419 miles.
Designed with versatility in mind, the BYD Shark can traverse water up to 70cm deep and tackle muddy terrain, matching the capabilities of conventional 4x4s equipped with appropriate tires. Unlike many traditional pick-ups, the Shark provides smooth, electric-style power delivery, with the petrol engine primarily functioning as a generator and engaging the wheels when extra power is required. It achieves acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph.
The vehicle’s chassis features a ladder-frame construction integrating the battery pack, contributing to its ruggedness and adaptability. On the practical side, the Shark offers multiple configurations, including the option to fit a Truckman hardtop to convert the bed into a van-like enclosure. Additional features include a pop-out step in the tailgate, towing capacity up to 2.5 tonnes, and onboard power sockets to operate work tools.
Inside, the cabin is equipped with contemporary amenities such as 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. The front seats are both heated and ventilated, while the interior layout includes numerous cup holders and grab handles, along with a flat rear floor to maximize passenger comfort across its five-seat configuration.
Despite its robust payload capability of 790 kilograms, the Shark falls short of the one-tonne threshold required to qualify as a commercial vehicle for VAT purposes in the UK. However, it benefits from substantially lower Benefit-in-Kind tax rates compared to comparable diesel double-cab pick-ups, making it an attractive choice for certain buyers.
With its combination of electric efficiency, off-road competence, and practical features, the BYD Shark aims to be a multifunctional vehicle bridging the gap between work truck and family SUV. The model is now available for purchase in the UK, representing a notable entry in the growing segment of electrified light commercial vehicles.