BYD teases upcoming electric pickup truck; set for global release in 2024

KUALA LUMPUR: BYD remains in the headlines every now and then, and this time, the leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer is making waves for its imminent entry into the pickup truck market. The company has recently unveiled teaser images of its upcoming electric pickup truck that will not only lock horns with the all-electric Tesla Cybertruck but also other ICE-powered models like the Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux, and Mitsubishi Triton.

While the name of the BYD pickup truck is yet to be disclosed, the reports confirmed that the vehicle will hit the global shores before the end of 2024. 

The images teased by the automaker showcase the truck draped in an eye-catching blue and orange camouflage, adding an element of mystery to its design. However, it is anticipated to be an imposing machine with a squared-off, muscular design that is sure to appeal to truck buyers.

Some leaked details of BYD’s first electric pickup suggest that it may be based on the Bao Leopard 5, a body-on-frame 4x4 off-road SUV that recently made an appearance at the Bangkok Motor Show. Fang Cheng Bao is a sub-brand of BYD introduced just last year. The Bao Leopard 5 is the first model that hails from this sub-brand. 

The Bao Leopard 5 comes equipped with a plug-in hybrid setup combining a 194 PS/273 Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline mill and two electric motors producing 272 PS and 360 Nm at the front axle and 387 PS and 400 Nm at the rear axle. Together, the setup makes a whopping power of 687 PS and 760 Nm. Also, part of the kit is a 31.8 kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate battery offering an electric-only range of 125 km.

While nothing is official yet, the upcoming BYD pickup is likely to borrow the same setup.

Well, BYD's entry into the pickup truck segment underscores its ambition to diversify its product lineup and capture a larger share of the global EV market. 

Stay tuned with us for further updates on the official unveiling of the BYD pickup truck and the details regarding its specifications and features.

Also read: BYD steals limelight at Bangkok Motor Show; previews Seagull, Seal U, Yangwang U9 and many more EVs