BYD SHARK PHEV Review: Off-Road, Beach & Towing Test – Real Performance, Capability, and Efficiency
The BYD SHARK PHEV is one of the most anticipated plug-in hybrid pickup trucks to hit global markets. With bold styling, a powerful dual-motor hybrid system, and serious off-road ambitions, it aims to challenge established trucks while offering the efficiency benefits of electrification. In this hands-on test, the SHARK PHEV is pushed through off-road trails, sand dunes, beach driving, and real towing scenarios to see whether it performs as advertised. This review breaks down its capabilities, drivetrain performance, electric range, efficiency, and overall driving behaviour in demanding conditions.
1. BYD SHARK PHEV Overview
The BYD SHARK is a body-on-frame plug-in hybrid pickup built for global markets. Its key features include:
- Dual-motor PHEV powertrain
- DMO (Dual Mode Off-Road) hybrid system, tuned for rugged use
- High-voltage electric architecture for instant torque
- Selectable 4WD modes, including sand, mud, and rock
- Strong towing capability, competitive with diesel pickups
- Electric driving for short daily trips, hybrid power for long distances
2. Powertrain & Driving Modes
The SHARK’s hybrid system blends an electric motor with a combustion engine to deliver high torque at low RPMs, ideal for off-roading and towing. Electric torque also improves traction control on loose surfaces like sand and mud.
Key driving modes tested:
- EV Mode – silent, torque-rich, ideal for low-speed trails
- Hybrid Mode – best for mixed environments
- 4WD Lock – maximum traction for deep sand
- Off-Road presets – automatically adjust traction control, throttle response, and torque split
3. Off-Road Test: Trails, Mud & Hills
During rugged trail testing, the SHARK PHEV demonstrated strong low-end torque, enabling easy climbing over rocky hills and uneven terrain.
Traction & Stability
- Electric torque delivered instant wheel response
- Limited-slip behaviour worked well on loose dirt
- 4WD Lock provided confidence when climbing steeper sections
Throttle Control
The hybrid system allowed smooth, controlled crawling, thanks to electric modulation. In comparison to diesel trucks that require more throttle, the SHARK felt easier and more stable at low speeds.
4. Beach & Sand Test
Beach and dune driving are where many trucks fail due to power delivery issues or poor traction. The SHARK PHEV, however, performed impressively.
Torque in Deep Sand
Electric torque instantly pushed the truck forward without digging in. With 4WD Lock engaged, the wheels maintained momentum even in soft, powdery sand.
Stability on the Beach
The SHARK felt planted and balanced, even on sloped or uneven sand. The hybrid system kept the revs low while still delivering ample power.
Heat Management
Sand driving is hard on drivetrains, but the temperature remained stable, showing the hybrid cooling system is well designed for demanding environments.
5. Towing Test: Real-World Trailer Load
One of the biggest questions for any PHEV pickup: Can it tow like a traditional diesel?
Performance Under Load
With a substantial trailer attached, the SHARK PHEV:
- Accelerated smoothly
- Maintained solid stability
- Used hybrid boost efficiently at highway speeds
Towing Confidence
The truck felt predictable, with controlled steering and no noticeable wobble. The powertrain managed weight with confidence, making it suitable for work, camping, and recreational towing.
6. Fuel Efficiency & Electric Range
The SHARK’s PHEV setup allows drivers to complete most daily commutes purely on electric power, while hybrid mode handles long trips or towing.
Electric-Only Driving
Ideal for:
- City driving
- Short errands
- Quiet low-speed off-road trails
Hybrid Efficiency
On mixed terrain, the combination of electric and combustion power offers significantly lower fuel consumption than traditional 4x4 pickups.
Off-Road Consumption
Even during heavy off-road use, the SHARK’s hybrid system kept fuel usage reasonable by relying heavily on electric torque at low speeds.
7. Comfort, Interior & Technology
The SHARK PHEV interior continues BYD’s modern, tech-focused design language.
Interior Highlights
- Large infotainment with off-road data
- Comfortable seats for long trips
- Stable ride quality even on rough surfaces
- Modern driver-assistance suite
8. Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Excellent instant torque from the hybrid system
- Strong performance in sand and off-road conditions
- Capable towing behaviour
- Efficient fuel consumption
- Refined cabin and easy low-speed control
Weaknesses
- Not as rugged as hardcore off-road trucks
- Weight of PHEV system noticeable on very technical terrain
- Electric range may vary significantly depending on load and climate
9. Final Verdict: How Good Is the BYD SHARK PHEV?
The BYD SHARK PHEV proves that a plug-in hybrid pickup can deliver real off-road performance, solid towing capability, and impressive efficiency. It handles trails, sand, and beach driving confidently, thanks to its powerful hybrid system and well-tuned traction controls.
For drivers who want a capable truck without the high running costs of diesel and who appreciate silent, torque-rich EV driving the SHARK PHEV is a compelling new option. It’s not a hardcore rock crawler, but as a modern, efficient, all-round adventure and work truck, it succeeds in nearly every environment.
If BYD brings this model worldwide, the SHARK PHEV could quickly become one of the most popular electrified pickups on the market.