Snapshot
- The first alleged spy shots of the BYD electric ute have been revealed.
- Not clear if it’s a PHEV or BEV, but likely sold under a spin-off brand.
- The local distributor says it will land in Australia.
A new spy photo in China has given the first glimpse of an alleged BYD electric ute – and it could be coming to Australia.
Since the Shenzhen automaker now only produces electrified plug-in hybrids and pure battery electric vehicles, it’s unclear whether the mid-size ute will be offered in both powertrains or just the latter.
But, the Chinese-made electric ute could come under either BYD’s new upmarket Yangwang spinoff or a separate yet-to-be-announced sub-brand that will both launch next year.
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The heavily camouflaged spy shot doesn’t give away much of the requisite BYD dual-cab pickup, other than an opening on the front left fender where a charge port might sit.
BYD electric cars are sold in Australia through independent distributor EVDirect. But, it’s been off to a rocky start after a number of recalls and odd specific warranty exclusions applied to the Atto 3 small crossover that currently retails at $44,381 before on-road costs.
EVDirect chief executive Luke Todd said it was real. The wheels First.
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“It’s under development and I’ve seen it. We’ll try to open pre-orders for it in 2023, for delivery in late 2023.
However, EVDirect is expected to sell the BYD Dolphin small hatchback and sedan sedan early next year, before focusing on other products in the pipeline.
If it arrives in Australia, it will compete directly with the LDV eT60, Australia’s first full-electric ute at $92,990 before it hits the streets, and the ever-popular Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger and GWM Ute. Will compete with engine models. and Brisbane start-up Roev which will soon offer an electric conversion kit for the former two fleets.