2025 BYD Shark ute, electric hot hatch set for imminent reveal

BYD is set to reveal a range of new products at this week’s Beijing motor show, including its long-awaited plug-in hybrid ute and a mysterious new electric model.

The BYD Ocean-M concept previews a new vehicle for the brand’s Ocean range – which includes the Dolphin and Seal sold here – that will ride “a new pure electric platform”.

The Chinese carmaker has released a shadowy teaser video on social media, revealing a vehicle with a distinct resemblance to the Seal up front but a hatchback body and a prominent rear spoiler.

This could point to a rival for the likes of small electric hatchbacks such as the Cupra Born and MG 4.

The Ocean-M will be revealed on April 25 at the Beijing motor show.

Also set to finally be unveiled – after endless leaks, teasers and spy photos – is the company’s first ute.

Officially confirmed to be called the BYD Shark, the ute will share its DMO platform with the Bao 5 from the nascent Fangchengbano brand.

It’s set to offer plug-in hybrid power first, with an electric version expected to follow.

Previous overseas reports have pointed to the Shark using a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine mated with two electric motors, for a total system output of 365kW of power.

Interior spy shots have shown a centre console-mounted shifter, physical toggle switches, a free-standing digital instrument cluster and a rotatable infotainment screen.

BYD’s Australian distributor has previously confirmed the ute is due to launch locally in the second half of 2024, with some examples of the dual-cab already having been spied testing.

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