Gasgoo Munich- On May 13 that Xiong Tianbo, general manager of BYD's Fangchengbao, announced the Shark pickup will go on sale in China this year. It will officially join the Fangchengbao lineup, completing an "export-to-domestic" strategy for this global model.
As BYD's first global new energy pickup, the Shark isn't exactly new. The vehicle made its global debut in Mexico in May 2024, positioned as a luxury, intelligent, hardcore pickup, before subsequently rolling out to overseas markets such as Australia and Brazil.
Image Credit: BYD
The overseas version is built on BYD's DMO Super Hybrid Off-road Platform, featuring a 1.5T engine and a front-and-rear dual-motor plug-in hybrid system. It delivers over 430 horsepower, sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, and offers an NEDC combined range of 840 km with a pure electric range of 100 km. Measuring 5,457 mm × 1,971 mm × 1,925 mm with a 3,260 mm wheelbase, the truck boasts robust off-road and hauling capabilities.
The most significant change for its return to the domestic market is the switch to the Fangchengbao badge, aligning it with models like the Leopard 5 and Leopard 8. In terms of positioning, the model fits Fangchengbao's premium off-road DNA perfectly, allowing for shared supply chains and sales channels.
Previously, BYD Group had signaled the Shark's entry into China on multiple occasions. In October 2025, Li Yunfei, general manager of the Group's Brand and Public Relations Department, publicly confirmed the model was part of the domestic launch plan. With this official announcement, BYD is formally entering China's new energy pickup segment, taking on rivals like the Great Wall Shanhai Gun Hi4-T and expanding its premium off-road portfolio.
Leveraging its proven performance overseas, hybrid technology advantages, and the Fangchengbao brand equity, the Shark is poised to disrupt a market long dominated by traditional fuel pickups. As China continues to relax restrictions on pickup trucks, the model's launch will serve as a key asset for BYD as it battles for diverse market segments.
