The Chinese automaker’s next pickup takes a smaller, simpler route, designed for South America’s compact truck market
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by Brad Anderson
2 hours ago
- New BYD pickup targets South America’s compact unibody truck segment.
- Prototype shows softer styling and smaller proportions than the Shark.
- Powertrains may include ICE or ethanol setups suited for regional needs.
The BYD Shark has been a strong hit for the Chinese automaker, marking one of the first mid-size plug-in hybrid pickups. Its success seems to have only sharpened BYD’s appetite for expansion, as the company now sets its sights on nearly every corner of the pickup market.
To that end, BYD is developing a second truck positioned just below the Shark in both size and price, and the first images of a prototype testing in public have already surfaced across social media.
Read: BYD Is Coming After Ford F-150 With A Full-Size Pickup
Recently caught testing wearing a makeshift blue camouflage wrap, the new BYD pickup takes a noticeably different direction from the Shark. Its styling is softer and more crossover-like, echoing the Hyundai Santa Cruz in both form and intent, with proportions that suggest a more urban-friendly footprint.
Why Go Smaller?
Developed specifically for South America, this new truck enters a space where smaller models thrive. It will go up against regional favorites like the Ram Rampage, Fiat Toro, and Chevrolet Montana, all of which have found loyal followings among buyers looking for practical utility without the bulk of a full-size pickup.
Up front, this prototype has the ‘Dragon Face’ featured on some earlier BYD models, including relatively simple headlights and a grille. Viewed from the side, it looks noticeably more compact than the Shark and has a much smaller bed. This prototype also features prominent roof rails and space for a tow hitch.
A More Basic Cabin
Weibo / Autohome
The interior appears to be a clear step down from the Shark’s more refined and premium cabin. This prototype uses BYD’s older steering wheel design, the same one found in the Sealion 6 SUV.
It also includes simple plastic air vents and a straightforward gear selector in the center console, framed by a cluster of physical buttons. BYD’s familiar infotainment screen remains present, offering some continuity with the brand’s other models.
Pricing hasn’t been confirmed, but judging by the cabin materials and layout, this new pickup is expected to come in noticeably cheaper than the Shark.
Powertrain Plans
The upcoming BYD truck appears to be a unibody design. As standard, the Shark is equipped with a 1.5-liter engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined 430 hp, allowing it to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in as little as 5.7 seconds.
It seems unlikely this powertrain will be used in the smaller truck, which may be sold as a pure ICE, perhaps with the ability to run on ethanol, which is very popular in Brazil. A cheaper hybrid is also possible.
Weibo / Autohome
