BYD Shark 6 Could Rival Ford Ranger Raptor with Upgrades and More Power

BYD’s Shark 6 could soon become a more serious rival to the Ford Ranger Raptor, thanks to potential upgrades and increased power output. The Chinese automaker recently unveiled a more powerful version of its Shark 6 in Australia, signaling its ambition to compete directly with Ford’s off-road flagship.

Shark 6 Performance Outpowers Ranger Raptor

The new Shark 6 Performance replaces the standard model’s 1.5-liter turbo engine with a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder and a more powerful electric motor. This boost increases power from 430 hp (321 kW) to 469 hp (350 kW) and torque from 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) to 516 lb-ft (700 Nm). Notably, this makes the Shark 6 more powerful than the Ford Ranger Raptor.

However, the current Shark 6 lacks critical off-road features, such as locking differentials, which the Ranger Raptor includes. BYD may address this gap through internal development or partnerships.

BYD Explores Upgrades and Partnerships

Stephen Collins, BYD Australia’s chief operating officer, acknowledged the potential for further enhancements. Speaking to Drive.com.au, he said:

“There’s a lot of things on the wish list. We know that [off-road ute] segment has a wide variety of different models and capabilities. The really positive thing is that we have a direct line into our R D centre in China. We’re constantly talking about opportunities so, yeah, I’d never say never.”

Collins also highlighted BYD’s collaboration with local upfitter Ironman 4×4, which could help modify the Shark 6 for off-road performance. He explained:

“We work with local partners. Iron Man’s a good example. We’ve got a really strong relationship with Iron Man. So yeah, we just work that out project by project.”

Alternative BYD Models Could Provide Off-Road Solutions

If in-house upgrades aren’t sufficient, BYD could leverage other models in its lineup. The company recently launched the Denza B5 in Australia, a rebranded version of the Fangchengbao 5, which has been available in China since 2023. The Denza B5 shares the Shark 6’s body-on-frame design but includes a low-range transfer case and front and rear locking differentials. Fitting these components to the Shark 6 could significantly enhance its off-road capabilities.

Sound and Driving Experience Remain Ford’s Advantage

Despite BYD’s advancements, the Ranger Raptor may retain an edge in driving excitement. Equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, the Raptor delivers a distinctive, guttural soundtrack that BYD’s plug-in hybrid and electric models cannot replicate. As BYD focuses exclusively on electrified powertrains, it may struggle to match the Raptor’s raw driving thrills.

For now, Ford’s Ranger Raptor remains a benchmark in the off-road pickup segment, but BYD’s Shark 6 could pose a growing challenge with its power and potential upgrades.