BYD Shark attack results in top safety rating for ute

The BYD Shark 6 ute has just gained five star safety rating. Photos: BYD?ANCAP

BYD’s latest model, the Shark 6, is the first plug-in hybrid electric ute to undergo ANCAP testing, resulting in five stars for the vehicle.

The Shark has just been launched in New Zealand, priced from $69,990. It takes on the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux in the hybrid market, while the Shark has the plug-in factor giving it a 100km fully electric range and 800km on the petrol engine.

The DC fast charge capability also means the vehicle can be recharged from 30 to 80 per cent in only 20 minutes.

The BYD Shark 6 scored 86% for Safety Assist.

The Shark 6 features the Super DM Technology 1.5 Turbo Hybrid four-cylinder high-power engine and electric motors. At the heart of the Super Hybrid DM Technology is an electric-based hybrid system.

This hybrid architecture uses a high-power motor drive and large-capacity battery as its primary power source, and the engine is only used for assistance. This innovative system focuses on efficiency, effortlessly adapting to different driving scenarios. 

BYD Super DM Technology uses a tailor-made version of the highly acclaimed ultra-safe BYD Blade Battery, giving a power capacity of 29.58 kWh.

The Shark 6 is equipped with an extensive range of standard safety features including dual frontal airbags, side chest and side head-protecting airbags. It also features a centre airbag designed to protect the front-seat occupants in side-impact crashes.

The BYD Shark 6 was testing for occupant protection.

Scores achieved by the BYD Shark 6 were Adult Occupant Protection 85%, Child Occupant Protection 87%, Vulnerable Road User Protection 74% and 86% for Safety Assist.

“With five of BYD’s current local models having now earned top ANCAP safety ratings, it's evident that new manufacturers are prioritising safety as they enter the market to align with consumer demands,” said ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg. 

“Following the recently rated GWM Cannon Alpha hybrid ute, we expect to see an increase in electrified options in the utility space. And so far, they’re meeting the mark.” 

“For fleets looking to electrify their light commercial ute range, the Shark 6 presents a new five-star plug-in hybrid option,” said Hoorweg.

AutoMuse will be testing the Shark 6 ute in early April.