BYD’s first crack at the Australian ute market is more impressive than anyone expected. The Shark 6 plug-in hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine with a rear electric motor for a combined 320kW and 650Nm.

Electric-only range is a claimed 100km from the 29.6kWh blade battery, and in our testing we managed 85km of real-world EV driving. For tradies doing short commutes, this could mean weeks between fuel station visits.

The tray dimensions are competitive with the HiLux and Ranger, measuring 1520mm long and 1390mm wide between the wheel arches. Payload is rated at 835kg and towing capacity at 2.5 tonnes.

Build quality is solid, the cabin is well-appointed with a 15.6-inch rotating screen, and the ride is impressively smooth. At $59,990, it significantly undercuts the Ranger and HiLux while offering plug-in hybrid efficiency. The big question remains resale value and long-term reliability.