BYD building plug-in hybrid pickup truck, set for launch end-2023

BYD looks to be finalizing its entry into the pick-up truck market, as its latest patent images more clearly reveal its plans to create a plug-in hybrid vehicle.

The Chinese brand already has a strong electric vehicle (EV) product lineup with the BYD Dolphin, which recently got a price adjustment in the Philippines, and the BYD ATTO 3, which is set to launch in the country soon.

According to our Autofun Thailand colleagues, the BYD pick-up truck is set to be officially launched by the end of 2023, with new vehicle sales starting in China first and then other markets soon after. Camouflaged units of the pick-up truck were spotted in China on August 2023.

Australia will reportedly be the first foreign market to receive the new vehicle after debuting in the People’s Republic. After the plug-in hybrid model, BYD plans to release an EV version.

Design elements

Based on the images, we can tell that BYD will be sticking to the same design formula as Japanese and American brands, with the pick-up truck getting a broad front fascia, a large BYD logo and boxy headlights.

It also appears that the pick-up truck will come with C-shaped LED daytime running lights, similar to what is on the Ford Ranger.

The side profile of the pick-up truck reveals its boxy wheel arches and body cladding. Given the patent images, it may also come with a large set of alloy wheels.

It also has a sweptback design for its cabin area and could come with a standard sports bar at the back. Aside from this, a sunroof could also be a feature for the plug-in hybrid, but only for its higher variants. 

What about its powertrain?

Unfortunately, BYD has yet to release any information concerning the powertrain of the pick-up truck.

However, reports have confirmed that the new vehicle will ride on independent suspension instead of leaf springs found in other pick-up trucks.

Aside from this, the BYD plug-in hybrid will come with a 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive system. 

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AutoFun Philippines Senior Writer VJ Bacungan contributed to this report.