Australian Renovator’s Take on BYD Shark Hybrid Pickup
Wayne Dopson, a project manager from Brisbane, Australia, recently shared his experience with the BYD Shark hybrid pickup truck. Dopson, who runs a renovation business, purchased the vehicle in March for AU$64,000 (approximately $41,000 USD).
A Renovator’s Perspective
Dopson has been in the property market for years, flipping houses and renovating kitchens, bathrooms, and decks for clients. His old Volkswagen Amarok diesel-powered pickup had been with him since 2015, but he decided to upgrade when he found the BYD Shark.
Why Choose the BYD Shark?
The decision to switch came after being unimpressed with other combustion-engine trucks like the Ford Ranger, which Dopson felt offered nothing new or exciting. He was particularly drawn to the BYD Shark due to its competitive pricing compared to Ford and Toyota’s offerings, which he deemed overpriced.
First Impressions
After driving the Shark for 2,000 kilometers, Dopson is impressed with its technology, power, and smoothness. He describes it as feeling ‘decades ahead’ of his old Amarok. The interior luxury and performance, with a 0-100 km/h time of 5.7 seconds, have also won him over.
Cost-Effective and Practical
For Dopson, one of the key advantages of the BYD Shark is its cost-effectiveness. With 30 solar panels on his roof providing free daytime electricity, he charges his vehicle at a low rate of AU$0.08 per kilowatt-hour from midnight to 6 a.m., costing less than AU$2 (approximately $1.30 USD) per charge. This is significantly cheaper than the AU$13-14 he’d spend on diesel daily for his old Amarok.
The Shark also offers practical benefits for Dopson’s renovation work. Its power outlets can supply up to 6 kilowatts of power, useful for on-site tools and appliances.
Addressing Range Anxiety
As an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV), the BYD Shark features two electric motors and a 1.5-liter petrol turbo engine acting as a generator. This setup alleviates range anxiety for Dopson, who typically drives less than 100 kilometers daily on electric power alone. When needed, the petrol engine kicks in, allowing for an 800-kilometer range.
Concerns and Future Prospects
Despite his positive experience, Dopson worries about the vehicle’s resale value and potential obsolescence. With rapid advancements in EV technology, he acknowledges that the Shark might be outdated in five years. However, he’s committed to keeping it for the six-year warranty period.
Cultural Impact and Conclusion
Dopson welcomes more Chinese EV brands entering the Australian market, noting the benefits of longer warranties and better quality vehicles. While acknowledging that the Shark may not match traditional ‘utes’ in off-roading capabilities, he finds it more than suitable for his needs. Driving the BYD Shark is not only a pleasure but also an environmentally friendly choice, aligning with Dopson’s appreciation for its low running costs and reduced environmental impact.
