First BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid electric ute delivered in Brisbane

Targeting the best-selling Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger utes, first deliveries of the BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid from Chinese EV giant BYD began in Australia this week.

The first set of keys were handed over in Brisbane in partnership with BYD’s exclusive Australian distributor, EVDirect. Demonstrating the potential demand for electrified utes in Australia, the Shark 6 has already racked up over 5,500 orders since pre-orders went live in October.

Among those who pushed orders to over 2,000 within the first 24 hours was Ben Hillier, who took delivery of the first Shark 6 in Brisbane on Monday.

“I got my confirmation email one minute after the vehicle was launched,” Hillier said.

“I’d done my research, and knew the BYD Shark 6 was the vehicle for me. It does everything my current ute does – drive around town, tow the boat, or pick up a load – but now I’m charging it for free using my solar panels.

“I look forward to getting out to Fraser Island and being able to power my campsite with my Shark 6, but also know that there’s no range anxiety. If I want to stay another day, or drive a bit further, all I need is a jerry can.”

BYD now expects to be able to deliver the Shark 6 to customers within six to eight weeks after order.

The speed of delivery may eventually become even greater, with BYD and EVDirect pointing to port industrial action delaying deliveries.

“Unfortunately, due to the ongoing port industrial action, more Sharks can’t get to shore – but we are hopeful that this will be resolved soon, so more customers like Ben can hit the road in their BYD Shark 6,” said David Smitherman, CEO of EVDirect.

Unveiled at Mt Gipps station near the iconic mining town of Broken Hill in October and starting from $57,900 before on-roads, the Shark 6 comes with a 29.58 kWh Blade battery that BYD boasts will deliver 100 kilometres of pure electric range. Total driving range using the internal combustion engine and electric battery skyrockets to up to 800 kilometres.

“This is a moment that’s been years in the making,” said Smitherman.

“We’re so immensely proud the BYD Shark 6 ute is finally here, allowing us to offer Australian drivers a new energy choice where they previously had none. We expect these first deliveries to really ramp up this country’s new energy transition.

“But the most satisfying part is seeing all the smiles on the faces of these customers, as they drive out of our dealerships in their new BYD Shark 6.”