BYD Electrifies SA Showrooms with SHARK 6 – Plug-In Innovation Meets Rugged Performance Prices start from R749,900 for the SEALION 6, with the top-tier SEALION 7 and SHARK 6 models expected to retail above R1-million, as BYD pushes the limits of hybrid and EV tech in South Africa with the arrival of three groundbreaking models. The launch lineup includes the futuristic SEALION 6 and SEALION 7 SUVs, alongside BYD’s first-ever bakkie, the SHARK 6 – all boasting the brand’s latest in performance, intelligence, and low-emissions technology. Unveiled in Johannesburg earlier this month, the trio represents BYD’s boldest step yet into the South African market, underpinned by its globally renowned electric and hybrid innovations. “We’re raising the bar with a full lineup that blends sport, tech, and versatility,” said Steve Chang, Managing Director at BYD Auto SA. “Whether it’s the family-friendly SEALION 6, the high-performance SEALION 7, or the trail-ready SHARK 6, there’s a BYD that speaks to every kind of South African driver.” BYD SHARK 6 – A Plug-In Bakkie with Bite The SHARK 6 is more than just BYD’s debut bakkie – it’s a statement of intent. Built on the automaker’s DMO Super Hybrid Off-Road Platform, this double-cab beast blends 4x4 muscle with the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid. Under the bonnet, a 1.5T petrol engine works in tandem with an electric motor to churn out a combined output north of 430hp, matching traditional V8 performance with modern-day fuel thriftiness. Acceleration is impressive at 0–100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, while BYD’s intelligent electric all-wheel-drive system dynamically splits torque to tackle rough tracks or wet tarmac without breaking a sweat. With a combined WLTP range of 670 km and 85 km in full-electric mode, the SHARK 6 nails long-distance versatility. Even when driving on petrol alone, fuel usage remains modest at 9.6L/100km. Safety-wise, the SHARK 6 carries BYD’s much-talked-about Blade Battery, integrated into the chassis via Cell-to-Chassis (CTC) construction. It’s a tank – both literally and structurally – and offers added torsional rigidity for better handling off the beaten path. SEALION 6 – The Efficient Everyday Hero If the SHARK is BYD’s brawn, the SEALION 6 is its brain. Positioned as a practical and tech-savvy SUV for families, it features BYD’s Super DM-i hybrid system for a balance of power and frugality. In AWD spec, the SEALION 6 sprints from 0–100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, with output peaking at 238kW and 550Nm of torque. The front-wheel-drive version shines with its fuel economy – sipping just 5.5L/100 km and offering a driving range of up to 1,080 km. Whether it's the school run or a cross-country road trip, the SEALION 6 is up for it. Inside, you get a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, voice-command integration, and a crystal-clear head-up display that overlays real-time driving data on the windscreen. This is not your average plug-in SUV – it’s a rolling smart device that happens to have wheels. SEALION 7 – BYD’s EV Flagship Goes Sport-Coupe SUV For those who prefer zero-emission thrills, the SEALION 7 ticks all the right boxes. Styled like a coupe-SUV but with enough practicality to serve as a daily driver, it comes with a rear motor capable of spinning up to 23,000 rpm – one of the fastest on any production EV to date. The SEALION 7 is no slouch either: 0–100 km/h in 4.5 seconds for the Performance model, and 6.7 seconds for the Premium version, both capped at 215 km/h top speed. Battery capacity stands at 82.56 kWh, delivering a real-world WLTP range of up to 482 km, and ultra-fast DC charging will take you from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Cabin tech matches the futuristic powertrain – there’s a rotatable central screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Dynaudio sound system. Boot space is generous too, with 500L at the rear and a handy 58L front trunk for your gear. A Complete Lineup – A Clear Direction With six models now on offer locally – including the already popular ATTO 3, DOLPHIN, and SEAL – BYD’s South African strategy is crystal clear: deliver innovation across every segment. These latest launches underscore BYD’s ambition to cater to all types of drivers, whether they’re seeking eco-friendly commuting, electric performance, or rugged utility. With more showroom openings planned and a strong after-sales network in development, BYD is fast becoming a serious contender in South Africa’s future-forward motoring scene.