When BYD invites you on a road trip through some of the most scenic parts of New Zealand, you say yes first and ask questions later. That’s exactly how I found myself, along with six other motoring journalists, flying into Queenstown for the launch of the BYD Shark 6—a plug-in hybrid ute - with a surprise unveiling of the all-new BYD Sealion 7 along the way.

It wasn’t just a car launch. It was a tour of NZ’s clean energy future, a road trip, and a chance to see how well these BYD newcomers handle real roads (and real Kiwi conditions).

Spoiler alert: They handled it very well.

Queenstown to Manapouri – The Shark Takes Off

Our journey started in Queenstown, where we were handed the keys to the BYD Shark 6. First impressions? This thing doesn’t feel like your average Kiwi ute. It’s surprisingly refined and jam-packed with tech that you’d expect in a high-end SUV rather than a ute.

With a power output of 321kW, it moves from 0 to 100km/h in 5.7 seconds, which is no joke. What really stood out was how smooth it was. Whether cruising along Lake Wakatipu or tackling winding sections en route to Manapouri, the Shark 6 felt solid, composed, and genuinely comfortable.

Photo Credit: BYD

Manapouri Hydro Power Station – Where the Magic Happens

At Manapouri, BYD had something big planned. Not only were we there to see how hydropower helps fuel New Zealand’s clean energy push, but they also unveiled the BYD Sealion 7, an all-electric SUV that’s set to make waves (ha ha).

A sealion surprise 200m below sea level

The setting couldn’t have been more fitting. Deep inside one of NZ’s largest hydro stations, we stood where renewable energy is generated—the same energy that could power BYD’s electric lineup. The message was clear: BYD isn’t just in the business of making EVs; it’s in the business of reducing the world’s reliance on fossil fuels. 

Sealion 7 – The Surprise Star

So, what’s the Sealion 7 all about? It’s a fully electric SUV with a range of 482km. The top spec Sealion is capable of 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds and has ample storage space. There are big expectations for this car, as its predecessor, the BYD Sealion 6, was selected as the AA DRIVEN Car Guide Car of the Year 2024.

Inside, it’s all class: a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof, and more space than you’d expect. It’s essentially the BYD Atto 3’s bigger, smarter sibling with more range, more tech, and a bit more road presence.

Te Anau & White Hill – The BYD Road Trip Continues

From Manapouri, we took the Shark 6 to Te Anau, where we grabbed some epic shots of the vehicles with the stunning lake and mountains as a backdrop. Then, it was off to White Hill Wind Farm, another key player in NZ’s renewable energy efforts.

This part of the trip really reinforced BYD’s commitment to sustainability. It wasn’t just about showing off cars, it was about showing how these cars fit into a future powered by clean energy. Driving a plug-in hybrid ute and an all-electric SUV through hydro stations and wind farms? That’s a pretty strong statement.

Shark sighting at White Hill Wind Farm

BYD Shark 6 – Ute of the Future?

Alright, let’s talk about the Shark 6 in more detail.

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has a 1.5L turbo engine + dual electric motors

What’s most exciting about the Shark 6 is that it’s a ute that doesn’t guzzlefuel like it’s going out of fashion. You can plug it in, drive in EV mode for short trips, and still have a traditional fuel tank for longer adventures. It’s a practical alternative to diesel utes, especially as more buyers start looking for lower-emission options.

Exterior

High-tech interior with 15.6-inch adaptive screen

Gear shifter

BYD Sealion 7 – The EV SUV That’s Ready to Go

If the Shark 6 is for tradies and adventure-seekers, the Sealion 7 is for those who want an efficient, high-tech SUV with serious range.

It’s BYD’s answer to the growing demand for EV SUVs that don’t cost six figures. Starting at $67,990 plus ORC, it undercuts the Tesla Model Y by over $5,000NZD, with more range and extra features.

Photo credit: BYD

Final Thoughts – Was the BYD Shark 6 Launch a Success?

Absolutely. This event was less of a car launch and more of an experience. The Shark 6 proved itself as a capable, refined, and efficient ute, while the Sealion 7 showed off BYD’s commitment to EV innovation.

Beyond the vehicles, the trip itself was a great blend of real-world testing,learning about NZ’s renewable energy sources, and taking in some of themost stunning landscapes in the country. If BYD wanted to make an impression, they did.

Verdict?

If you’re after a hybrid ute that doesn’t skimp on power, tech, or efficiency, the Shark 6 is a serious contender. And if you’re looking at EV SUVs, the Sealion 7’s range and features make it one to watch.

BYD isn’t just bringing cars to NZ—they’re dedicated to bringing a whole new way of thinking about driving, and after this trip, I’d say the future’s looking pretty good.

Article by Thomas Siemsen

Thomas is the Creative and Content Executive at the NZ Automobile Association, and has a passion for cars and great storytelling. Whether he’s test-driving the latest vehicles or crafting engaging campaigns, he’s always looking for new ways to connect people with content that makes a difference.