BYD has confirmed that its highly anticipated Shark will make its European debut at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed, giving visitors the first opportunity to see the plug-in hybrid pick-up on European soil.
The reveal forms part of BYD Group’s largest-ever presence at the famous hillclimb event, where the Chinese automotive giant will showcase eight new vehicle debuts across its BYD, DENZA and YANGWANG brands.
While much of the attention will focus on the global unveiling of the DENZA Z sports car range, the arrival of the Shark is one of the most significant launches for the commercial vehicle market.
Already established in a number of international markets, the Shark is BYD’s first serious entry into the global pick-up segment and is positioned as a technologically advanced alternative to traditional diesel-powered rivals.
BYD has yet to launch a purpose-built commercial vehicle in the UK, with the Dolphin Cargo e-Van the only model to-date.
Read about New BYD Dolphin Cargo e-Van gets 347-mile range
The BYD Shark is powered by BYD’s Dual Mode Off-road plug-in hybrid system, which combines petrol and electric power to deliver a total output of 435PS.
According to BYD, the powertrain enables the Shark to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest pick-ups on the market.
The electrified drivetrain also provides an electric-only driving range of up to 55 miles, while maintaining the practicality expected from a working vehicle. BYD says the Shark is capable of towing up to 2,500kg, allowing it to compete in both lifestyle and commercial applications
Read our Ford Ranger PHEV review
The Goodwood appearance marks an important milestone for BYD as it continues to expand its presence across Europe. The manufacturer has already established itself as one of the world’s largest producers of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, but the Shark is an opportunity to enter a market segment traditionally dominated by established pick-up manufacturers like Ford and Toyota.
The Shark will form part of a record-breaking display for BYD Group at Goodwood, occupying a 2,016-square-metre stand, making it the largest display area in the festival’s history.
Stella Li, executive vice president of BYD, said: “This is more than a product showcase. It is a statement of intent. With eight premieres across three distinct brands, BYD Group is demonstrating how innovation, performance, premium design and sustainability can coexist within one of the most comprehensive automotive portfolios in the world.”
BYD has yet to confirm full European specifications, pricing or launch timings for the Shark.
