BYD Expanding Local Lineup With New Bakkie and Two SUVs

BYD is making a bold play for the South African market this week, launching not one, not two, but three new models: the Shark 6 PHEV bakkie, and the Sealion 6 and 7 SUVs. 

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This aggressive expansion signals the Chinese automaker’s intent to diversify its offerings and challenge established players in a market traditionally dominated by internal combustion engine vehicles. While BYD initially entered South Africa with the all-electric Atto 3, followed by the Dolphin and Seal, they’ve clearly recognized the local preference for hybrid and plug-in hybrid vehicles. This strategic shift is crucial, especially in a “bakkie-crazed” nation like South Africa, where utility and ruggedness are paramount to achieve market share.

Related: The BYD Shark Debuts as an Apex Predator in the Bakkie Segment

The headline grabber is undoubtedly the Shark 6. This bakkie measures a substantial 5 457 mm long, 1 971 mm wide, and 1 925 mm tall, with a 3 260 mm wheelbase, is built on BYD’s DMO platform, designed for off-road capability and dual-mode functionality. The powertrain, a combination of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and dual electric motors and delivers a potent 320 kW and 610 N.m. This translates to a blistering 5.7-second 0-100 km/h sprint, all figures that make it the most potent double-cab available locally. In a market where bakkies are not just workhorses but also status symbols, the Shark 6’s performance and standard features could seriously shake things up but it will have to compel traditional buyers first.

Image: BYD

Alongside the Shark 6, BYD is introducing the Sealion 6, a mid-size SUV crossover aimed at a broader audience. With dimensions of 4 775 mm long, 1 890 mm wide and 1 670 mm tall, and a 2 765 mm wheelbase, it slots neatly into the competitive SUV segment. Available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, the Sealion 6 boasts a modern, streamlined aesthetic and a well-equipped interior, featuring a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch rotating infotainment touchscreen.

BYD

Image: BYD

Completing the trio is the Sealion 7, known as the Sealion 07 EV in China. This electric SUV measures 4 830 mm long, 1 925 mm wide and 1 620 mm tall, and a 2 930 mm wheelbase, showcases BYD’s latest design language. Offering both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options, the Sealion 7 delivers impressive performance, with a 0-100 km/h time as low as 4.2 seconds in the AWD variant. Battery options of 71.808 kWh and 80.640 kWh promise a CLTC range of 550 km and 610 km, respectively.

Image: BYD

BYD’s strategy seems to be focused on catering to each niche of buyers with a flurry of options. All of the aforementioned models will be officially announced this week and will slot into the existing BYD lineup which includes the Dolphin, Atto 3, and Seal. Where do you think pricing for the newcomers will be?

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The post BYD Expanding Local Lineup With New Bakkie and Two SUVs appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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