BYD’s electrified new truck could be a game-changer in the heavily contested mid-size pickup truck segment
by Josh Byrnes
January 13, 2024 at 09:19
Fresh off the back of surpassing Tesla as the world’s biggest EV automaker, BYD’s (Build Your Dreams) determination to dominate the electric vehicle landscape is set to expand, with the Chinese automaker gearing up to reveal an (as yet unnamed) midsize pickup truck to tackle Ford’s Ranger and Toyota’s Hilux.
With patent images and spy shots already circulating, the electrified pickup has been undergoing product development testing in Australia with the intention of upsetting the establishment. Are you keen to know more? Let’s take an illustrated preview before its impending reveal.
Rugged Design
Wolfgang Egger, renowned for his work with Audi, has reportedly taken the design reins for BYD’s midsize pickup, which shows a rugged yet finely tailored appearance. The front grille boasts a large “BYD” logo, tough fenders, and C-clamp headlights.
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Curiously, it sports F-150 Lightning-inspired daytime running lights (DRLs), contributing to a visually striking exterior. Blacked-out A-pillars and a floating roof provide a touch of sophistication, while oblique rear taillights and a medium-sized cargo bed complete the chiselled appearance.
Interior Smarts
Photos Baidu IT Home
BYD’s truck promises a practical and technologically immersive experience. Key features include a Huawei-developed head-up display (HUD), a free-standing 10.25-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, and a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Air vents with contrasting red inlays add vibrancy, complemented by a squared-off drive selector featuring a row of toggle buttons flanked by two console grab handles. Other noteworthy items include a passenger-side open dashboard storage area, red steering wheel stitching, and seating for five occupants.
Electric Assistance
BYD claims its DM-i Electric (Dual-Motor Intelligence) hybrid technology is a world-first exclusive. While details are thin, this innovative system is said to utilize a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine and two electric motors, with a total system output of around 365 kW (490 hp).
They’re also bullish about a potential combined driving range of up to 1200 km (745 miles) with a full petrol tank and battery. Independent rear suspension and an all-wheel-drive are said to be standard fit, although odds are rear drive will be optional.
While unavailable at launch, a pure-electric version is under development to showcase BYD’s commitment to diverse powertrain options.
Rivals and Reveal
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In a competitive pickup segment, the BYD truck faces stiff competition from established names like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, Nissan Navara and Mitsubishi Triton, alongside other contenders like Geely’s Radar RD6, LDV T60 and GWM Cannon.
An official reveal will take place in the coming months, with sales set to kick off for Chinese, Australian, New Zealand and European markets later in the year. North American consumption is off the cards… for now.
What do you think of BYD’s new pickup truck? Share your views in the comments below.
Note: The illustrations in this article are not related to nor endorsed by BYD.
