by The largest Chinese automaker BYD continues to expand its portfolio. The company is refining a new compact pickup truck, which will be smaller than the Shark 6 model and aimed at drivers who value practicality but with smaller dimensions.
The official name of the vehicle has not yet been announced, but it can be temporarily called “Baby Shark”. Recently published patent applications at the European Intellectual Property Office provide an understanding of what to expect.
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This is a versatile vehicle based on a passenger car platform, clearly positioned in the same “lifestyle” segment as the Ford Maverick, although intended for other markets, as its appearance in the USA is almost impossible.
Performance will also be a focus. BYD combines compactness with a plug-in hybrid setup that promises quick acceleration and sufficient electric range for daily trips. Let’s take a closer look at what the manufacturer is preparing.
Curves Instead of Muscles
The best description of BYD’s new small pickup would be “easy on the eyes”. It abandons the traditional rugged design characteristic of GM and Ford in favor of a softer aesthetic, similar to the Hyundai Santa Cruz.
Attentive eyes will notice that many lines and contours strongly resemble the BYD Seal U/Sealion 6 crossover, meaning this is more of an internal modification rather than a completely new development from scratch.
The front features a bold trapezoidal grille with a “winged” upper section, similar to the Atto3. Pronounced fenders and sculpted doors add depth to the profile, and the rear with the cargo bed smoothly integrates with the cabin (as it is a unibody construction).
Elements for active recreation are also present: black plastic cladding, roof rails, and a sport bar in the rear. The tailgate and LED lighting borrow some features from the larger Shark 6, adding a family resemblance.
Crossover Interior, Just Taller
Exact interior specifications have not yet been revealed, but it will likely largely inherit the Sealion 6’s cabin. BYD is not aiming for a rough “pickup” look; this model is oriented towards a higher class.
Unlike offerings from Detroit or Seoul, BYD will be more premium. The center of attention will be a rotating 15.6-inch touchscreen, soft-touch materials, and artificial leather on the dashboard and doors.
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Other expected features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a heads-up display, a panoramic sunroof, wireless CarPlay, Android Auto, and phone charging. A flat floor and spacious cabin will be comfortable for rear passengers, and the cargo bed will get unique tie-downs and a V2L outlet for powering external devices.
Technical Specifications
The compact all-wheel-drive pickup will use BYD’s DM-i architecture, which is an advanced plug-in hybrid system. It is expected to combine a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors on the axles for all-wheel drive.
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The total system output will be 319 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque, which is significantly above average for the segment. Based on the Sealion 6, it can be assumed it will receive an 18.3 kWh BYD Blade battery, providing approximately 80 km of electric-only range. With both systems operating, the total range should approach 1000 km.
Competitors and Presentation
In terms of segment, the small BYD pickup can be compared to the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz. However, since the Chinese automaker does not have access to the US market, its more likely competitors will be the Ram Rampage, Geely Radar RD6, and Deepal E07.
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A full presentation is expected soon, with production planned to begin in early 2026. Right-hand-drive versions are expected to appear shortly after, indicating BYD’s plans to enter markets outside of China.
The emergence of BYD in the compact pickup market could significantly revitalize this segment, especially in regions where economy and environmental friendliness are important. The emphasis on hybrid technology with a large electric range makes the “Baby Shark” an interesting option for urban residents who occasionally need the capabilities of a utility vehicle. The success of this model could encourage other manufacturers to accelerate the development of similar unibody pickups, combining crossover comfort with utility.
