The BYD Shark 6 marks a significant milestone as Australia’s first plug-in hybrid ute, bringing a fresh perspective to the worksite and weekend warrior scene.
The front wheels get their grunt from a 170kW motor, while the rear wheels are driven by a 150kW unit. Together, on paper at least, they deliver 321kW of power and 650Nm of torque – which seems promising.
For camping enthusiasts and tradies alike, the Shark 6’s 790-890kg payload capacity means you can load some gear and tools and can accommodate aftermarket 4WD accessories. However, it may be cutting it fine for a more laden camping adventure with a slide on camper or even a more basic roof top tent and canopy setup let alone extra water, food, gear etc. So it falls short to other 1-tonne utes on the market like the Ford Ranger and Mazda BT-50.
Another area it falls short is the braked 2500kg towing capacity, that is 1 tonne short of most of the mid sized utes on Aussie roads, limiting you to a lightweight caravan or camper trailer.
In this article we aim to delve more into the specs, features and possibilities for the BYD Shark 6 in the Australian ute market, which is vastly different to many other markets around the world.
BYD Shark 6 Specifications and Performance
Hybrid Powertrain System
The BYD Shark 6’s hybrid powertrain is a clever mix of electric muscle and traditional reliability. Up front, a gutsy 170kW/310Nm electric motor drives the front wheels, while the rear gets its own 150kW/340Nm unit. Working together, they pump out 321kW and 650Nm of combined torque.
At the heart of this system sits a 29.58kWh LFP lithium-ion battery pack. BYD has smartly built this into the chassis structure, keeping the weight low and centered. This setup means you’re not losing valuable tray space to battery storage, unlike some other electric vehicles. Other power train features include:
• Seamless switching between electric and hybrid modes for optimal efficiency
• Regenerative braking captures energy that would normally be lost
• Independent motor control for better off-road traction
• Battery placement helps maintain a low center of gravity
Vehicle-to-Load Functionality
One of the Shark 6’s standout features is its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, which turns your ute into a mobile power station. In today’s high tech world and rise of remote work, this feature could be useful.
Through standard power outlets in the tray and cabin, you can tap into the hybrid system’s 29.58kWh battery to run everything from campsite lighting to power tools.
The system delivers up to 3.3kW of continuous power output – enough juice to run a coffee machine, portable fridge, and camp lights simultaneously, possibly even an induction cooker!
For tradies, this means running power tools at remote sites without a generator, while campers can power their setup without draining their auxiliary batteries.
• Run a 1000W coffee machine for morning brews at camp
• Power a 40L camping fridge for days without draining the starter battery
• Charge e-bikes and electric scooters between adventures
• Keep laptops and phones topped up during remote work
• Run small power tools or a portable air compressor for quick fixes
It isn’t exactly a small battery either, BYD mentions you could get up to 10 hours of use before the engine kicks in to charge the battery.
They also mention it could act like a backup generator to run household appliances if needed. In a camping scenario – it could charge and/or run the camper battery systems.
Remember though; all the power you use – you will need to replenish/recharge somehow. This brings us back to the fact that you will need continual and periodic access to 240v mains power (grid power) so a long enough drive would be needed to charge it back up again for the next night’s camp power needs.
Range and Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to range and efficiency, the BYD Shark 6 offers a total driving range of 800km when combining both electric and hybrid modes. Theoretically this means you can tackle the daily commute on pure electric power, then seamlessly switch to hybrid mode for those longer weekend adventures.
You can start each day with a full charge from a standard home power point overnight, perfect for around-town driving. When the battery runs low, the hybrid system kicks in automatically, eliminating any range anxiety.
• Home charging takes about 8-10 hours on a standard 240v powerpoint
• Pure electric mode is perfect for daily commutes under 50km
• Hybrid mode automatically engages when battery levels drop
• Regenerative braking helps extend range in stop-start traffic
One of the downsides from the practicality standpoint of plug-in hybrids or full electric vehicles is of course you have to remember to plug it in overnight, most likely every night if you drive every day, just like your mobile phone.
So that would probably rule out parking this ute on the street full time unless your neighbours are fine with 20m power lead running across the footpath. Or being at a free-camp in the middle of the bush and charging it through the night for the next day’s drive as there are no bush camps with easy access to 240v mains power (grid power) to charge with.
I can imagine for busy families with multiple drivers, plugging it in could easily be forgotten as well.
If buying this for work, careful consideration in where the vehicle would be charged would be an important factor.
Payload and Towing Capabilities
Payload Analysis for Slide-on Campers
For slide-on camper enthusiasts, the BYD Shark 6’s payload capacity of 790-890kg opens up some interesting possibilities. While this figure sits lower than some traditional diesel utes, it’s still enough to just handle popular slide-on options like the Trayon Dual Wide model. (Granted it would need a flat tray to accommodate it [More on this below]).
When we heard the battery’s integration into the chassis we thought perhaps that would mean a good separation between the tub and the chassis like a regular ute. However, we have heard from a reliable source that the factory tub can’t be removed due to electronics being integrated into the style-side tub itself.
We all know electric vehicles are heavy, all that power density. We were surprised that the payload figure seems somewhat usable despite the added weight of the hybrid system. Currently there are no GVM upgrades available for the BYD Shark to increase its payload capacities, this limits options greatly.
When fitting a slide-on camper, you’ll need to factor in not just the camper’s weight, but also your gear, passengers, and any aftermarket accessories you’ve added to the ute.
• Empty camper dry-weights typically range from 390-600kg (For Trayon Campers – options dependant)
• Allow 100-150kg for camping gear and supplies
• Factor in 150-200kg for passengers
• Remember to account for bull bars, lights, or other accessories in your calculations
I would imagine that the suspension at least would need to be upgraded to handle the dynamic load of a slide on camper over off road terrain as well and this may add more weight too.
Trayon Camper dry-weight reduction ideas
You can significantly reduce weight with how you set up/order a Trayon Camper to suit a vehicle like the Shark that has a very low payload capacity with no available payload upgrades (GVM upgrades). Let’s take the Trayon Dual-Wide STANDARD model as an example:
At approx 390kg with the above inclusions – the Trayon Dual-Wide STANDARD is already the lightest class-2 slide on camper (spec for spec) available in Australia. There are options you can upgrade/order to that will reduce the dry-weight of the Trayon Dual-Wide STANDARD model further as well as other things you can leave at home to reduce weight:
- Leave the Trayon legs at home = approx 33kg weight reduction
- Leave the extra cushion for 3rd bed and mattress for 4th bed at home – if not needed (ie: 2 person sleeper) = approx 6kg weight reduction
- Cancel out the Trayon gas system and swap to induction cooking from the Shark’s Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system. By doing this the gas lines, regulator and bayonet is illuminated from the camper build spec as well the 9kg gas bottle and gas cooktop is no longer needed = approx 17kg weight reduction
- Upgrade the Trayon on-board battery to a 100amp lithium pack as this replaces the 120AGM that comes with the STANDARD model = approx 21kg weight reduction
By doing some of the above; you are diminishing the Trayon Dual-Wide STANDARD model’s functions and features but everything is a compromise. Taking it from a 4 sleeper to a 2 sleeper, you won’t be able to free-stand the camper in-camp without its legs and there won’t be a gas system in the camper for other features like a BBQ or other cooking appliances which may diminish your resale value one day… again, compromises.
To read more about slide on camper weights and payload check out our article. Also check out the section on the unseen load of AGM batteries (commonly used in the camping industry as an auxiliary battery).
Towing Performance
The 2500kg braked towing capacity is still higher than most plugin hybrids on the market, however still 1000kgs lower than most non-hybrid diesel utes on the market. Definitely a step in the right direction.
And 2500kg is usable for lightweight trailers, caravans and camper trailers but more importantly – a small boat.
In theory BYD Shark 6’s high torque dual electric motors would provide a unique and responsive towing experience. It should be more responsive and consistent throughout from pulling away, cruising and stopping.
That said, towing does significantly impact the battery range by 30-40%, so probably for long trips away from home you’d be reliant heavily on the engine.
Vehicle Modifications and Accessories
Flat Tray Conversion Possibilities
At this point converting the BYD Shark 6 to a flat tray setup isn’t as straightforward as with traditional utes. If it were possible, the hybrid system’s complex wiring and battery placement means you’d likely need to work with specialised conversion shops who understand electric vehicle systems. However, at this point I don’t think they exist yet. Plus, it would likely void any warranty on the vehicle.
The good news is that the Shark 6’s chassis-integrated battery pack sits below the cab area, leaving the rear section relatively clear for modifications. However, you’ll need to carefully consider the location of high-voltage cables and cooling systems when planning any aftermarket accessories.
Aftermarket Support
The unique electrical architecture of the Shark 6 means that adding accessories like driving lights, fridges, and winches requires special consideration. Some traditional plug-and-play solutions might not be compatible.
It looks like the local distributor of the Shark 6, EVDirect is teaming up with Ironman 4×4 accessories to design more after market accessories in the future.
And if the ute gains more popularity I would imagine we would see ARB and TJM start designing their own products. It will take significant numbers of Shark’s to be registered before the likes of ARB and TJM would prioritise it for accessory and upgrades development, currently their focus is obviously on the most sold/ registered vehicles – they play the numbers game.
Future Developments and Options
Upcoming Cab Chassis Version
We have heard from a reliable source that BYD may have a cab/chassis version of the Shark 6 in the pipeline, aimed squarely at the commercial market. It may be offered as a stripped-back variant which will keep the same hybrid powertrain but offer more flexibility for custom tray setups and specialised work bodies.
The cab chassis model looks set to maintain the same 790-890kg payload capacity, though the final figure might shift slightly depending on the chosen build configuration and tray weight. Keeping in mind that most vehicles that offer a cab/chassis version have a larger stated payload capacity as they do not account for what you will fit on the back yet. Trays can weigh between 150 and 500kg, sometimes more than 500kg in steel. This weight needs to be considered.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Innovative Hybrid Powertrain: 321kW of power and 650Nm of torque from dual electric motors
- Decent Electric Range: Suitable for daily commutes under 50km on pure electric power
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) Functionality: Up to 3.3kW of continuous power output for camping or work sites
- Responsive Torque Delivery: Instant torque from electric motors provides smooth acceleration and towing experience
- Regenerative Braking: Captures energy and provides additional control on descents
- Total Driving Range: Combined 800km range eliminates range anxiety for longer trips, as it is similar to existing utes.
- Environmental Impact: Lower running emissions compared to traditional diesel utes, although not sure how long you’d have to drive it to be neutral from manufacturing.
Cons
- Limited Payload Capacity: 790-890kg payload falls short of traditional one-tonne utes
- Reduced Towing Capacity: 2500kg braked towing capacity is 1000kg less than most diesel alternatives
- Factory Tub Limitations: Current model doesn’t allow tub removal due to electronics integration
- Charging Requirements: Daily charging needed for optimal performance/consumption, potentially inconvenient for some users
- Range Reduction When Towing: 30-40% reduction in range when towing at maximum capacity
- Limited Aftermarket Support: Still developing compared to established ute models
- Potential Warranty Concerns: Modifications may void warranty due to complex electrical systems
- Limited parts and service access in rural areas compared to already established brands
Conclusion
The BYD Shark 6 demonstrates viable payload capacity for slide-on campers, though with tighter margins than conventional utes.
Its hybrid powertrain offers unique advantages for off-road touring, including V2L functionality and efficient range management. While aftermarket support is still developing, it seems to represent a practical bridge between traditional and electric utes.
At Trayon Campers of course, we would like to see the cab/chassis variant arrive so we can test for its true suitability for Aussie camping adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the real-world payload capacity of the BYD Shark 6 and can it handle a slide-on camper?
The BYD Shark 6 offers a payload capacity ranging from 790-890kg, which may work with some modern lightweight slide-on campers. While this payload is slightly lower than some diesel utes, careful weight management makes it viable for popular models like the Trayon Dual Wide. The key is understanding your total weight requirements, including passengers and accessories.
• Empty camper weight typically needs to be under 600kg to allow for gear and passengers
• Factor in roughly 150-200kg for two adults and basic camping gear and a full tank of fuel
• Bull bars, canopies and other accessories can add 100-550kg to your setup
• Consider the above Trayon Dual-Wide Standard model weight reduction ideas to reduce the camper weight even more
Pro Tip: Weigh all your gear individually and create a spreadsheet to track total weight. Leave at least a 50kg buffer for unexpected items and fuel weight variations.
That said, until a cab chassis version is announced, a slide on camper isn’t able to be mounted without a flat tray.
How does the BYD Shark 6’s hybrid towing capacity compare to traditional diesel utes?
The Shark 6’s 2500kg braked towing capacity sits below traditional diesel utes but in theory offers unique advantages through its electric motor torque delivery. The instant torque from the dual motors (170kW front, 150kW rear) provides smooth towing performance, especially when starting on hills or overtaking. The hybrid system maintains steady power delivery without the gear-hunting common in conventional utes.
• 2500kg capacity handles lightweight camper trailers, small boats, etc.
• Electric motors deliver instant torque from 0 RPM for easier hill starts
• Expect 30-40% reduction in total range when towing at maximum capacity, for longer trips you’ll likely be relying on the engine but still have the electric motor benefits.
• Regenerative braking helps control heavy loads on descents
What’s the real-world battery range and fuel efficiency of the BYD Shark 6?
Theory Shark 6 achieves a total driving range of 800km combining electric and hybrid modes according to BYD. The 29.58kWh LFP battery provides pure electric driving for shorter trips, while the hybrid system takes over seamlessly for longer journeys. Daily commuters can maximize efficiency by charging overnight and using pure electric mode for trips under 50km.
• Pure electric range suitable for most daily commutes under 50km
• Total 800km range eliminates range anxiety for longer trips
• Home charging takes 8-10 hours on standard power point
• Regenerative braking extends range in city driving conditions
Can I convert the BYD Shark 6 to a flat tray and what should I consider?
Flat tray conversions for the Shark 6 are not yet available, and if they were, they would likely require specialised expertise due to its hybrid system components.
There are rumors of a cab/chassis variant on the way, which would enable for custom tray fitment and open up a new market to BYD.
How does the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) system work for camping and work use?
The Shark 6’s V2L system provides up to 3.3kW of continuous power through standard household outlets in both the tray and cabin. This system taps into the 29.58kWh battery to power everything from campsite appliances to work tools. The power management system ensures enough charge remains for vehicle starting.
• Powers 1000W appliances like coffee machines and microwaves
• Runs 40L camping fridges for multiple days without auxiliary batteries
• Supports power tools drawing up to 3300W continuous power
• Charges e-bikes and devices through standard 240V outlets
What aftermarket accessories are available for the BYD Shark 6?
The aftermarket scene for the Shark 6 is developing, with an announcement of Ironman 4×4 designing various accessories.
Of course special consideration is needed for electrical accessories due to the complex hybrid system. If the vehicle gains more popularity, it is possible that ARB and TJM may come to the table.
How does the BYD Shark 6’s off-road performance compare to diesel utes?
In theory the Shark 6’s dual electric motors (170kW front, 150kW rear) provide unique advantages in off-road situations. The instant torque delivery and independent motor control may offer precise traction management, while the low-mounted battery pack helps with center of gravity. The regenerative braking system adds extra control on steep descents.
• Independent motor control enables precise wheel speed management
• Instant torque helps clear obstacles without momentum
• Low-mounted battery improves stability on side slopes
• Regenerative braking provides additional descent control
