A Hybrid Revolution Rolls Into Mzansi
It’s March 14, 2025, and South Africa’s bakkie game just leveled up. The BYD Shark 6 is set to hit our shores this month, bringing a first for Mzansi: a double-cab plug-in hybrid (PHEV). With 320 kW of power, a 100 km electric range, and a price tag hovering around R900k, this Chinese-built beast blends bakkie grunt with eco smarts. Ready to haul, tow, and plug in? Here’s everything you need to know about this electrified newcomer.
Power & Specs: What’s Driving the Shark 6?
The Shark 6 pairs a 1.5L turbo petrol engine (135 kW, 260 Nm) with dual electric motors—one per axle—for a combined 320 kW and 650 Nm. That’s enough kick to hit 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, outpacing most diesel rivals. Its 29.6 kWh Blade battery delivers 100 km of pure EV range (NEDC), stretching to 840 km total with petrol. Built on a ladder-frame chassis with double-wishbone suspension front and rear, it’s got 210 mm ground clearance (loaded), a 2,500 kg towing capacity, and an 835 kg payload.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Power | 320 kW (combined) |
| Torque | 650 Nm |
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo + Dual Electric Motors |
| Battery | 29.6 kWh, 100 km EV range |
| Towing | 2,500 kg |
| Payload | 835 kg |
Why It’s a Big Deal: The Upsides
This bakkie’s got serious perks. That 320 kW output means instant torque for overtaking on the N3 or hauling gear to a worksite. Fuel sipping at 2.0L/100km (charged) or 7.9L/100km (depleted) keeps costs low with petrol at R20.50/L in 2025. Inside, it’s plush—think a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, 12-speaker Dynaudio sound, and heated/ventilated seats. The V2L feature lets you power tools or a braai straight from the battery. Plus, 100 km of silent EV driving? Perfect for Joburg runs or Cape Town’s eco crowd.
The Trade-Offs: What to Watch For
It’s not all smooth sailing. The 2,500 kg towing capacity trails the Ranger’s 3,500 kg—fine for a trailer, less so for heavy caravans. Payload at 835 kg falls short of the one-tonne mark, a bummer for farmers or builders. Off-road, it lacks low-range gearing or diff locks, relying on electric torque instead—great for sand, untested on rocks. BYD’s new to SA’s bakkie scene too—long-term durability over potholes is a question mark, though its EV track record (Atto 3, Dolphin) is solid so far.
Pricing: What’ll It Cost in SA?
BYD SA’s keeping it hush, but based on Australia’s $57,900 AUD (~R600k) and adding local taxes/duties, expect R850k-R950k on-road. That’s below the Ford Ranger XLT Bi-Turbo (R1m+) or Toyota HiLux SR5 (R1.05m), with more power and tech to boot. Running costs? Dirt cheap with EV charging (R2/kWh vs. R20.50/L petrol). It’s a tempting package for a first-gen PHEV hitting Mzansi in March 2025.
Why It Matters: A Bakkie Breakthrough
The BYD Shark 6 isn’t just another double-cab—it’s South Africa’s first taste of a plug-in hybrid bakkie, blending electric efficiency with petrol range. Launching this March, it’s built for work, play, and saving bucks at the pump. Whether you’re towing in Gauteng or cruising the Garden Route, this 320 kW hybrid could redefine what we expect from a bakkie. Ready to plug in? BYD’s betting big—stay tuned for our test drive.
