BYD Shark 6 vs. Riddara RD6: Pakistan’s First PHEV Pickup with Potential EV Rival
The BYD Shark 6 is a newly launched pickup truck in Pakistan, and it’s a unique vehicle, as it’s the first-ever plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in the pickup segment. Before that, only diesel and petrol pickups were available in our market, but BYD decided to break the trend and introduced Pakistan’s first hybrid pickup truck.
As usual, whenever a new vehicle launches, we put it head-to-head against its closest competitor. This time around, the newly introduced BYD Shark 6 finds itself up against the fully electric Riddara RD6, a highly relevant rival soon going to launch in Pakistan. Currently, Capital Smart Motors, the company bringing the RD6 to Pakistan, has officially revealed the price of the RD6 (we will mention it later in this blog). With this announcement, test drives and bookings are expected to begin soon.
Given their similar performance capabilities and shared focus on electrification, comparing the BYD Shark 6 and Riddara RD6 provides valuable information for buyers considering something new and innovative in the pickup truck segment. It’s important to note that the specifications of RD6 mentioned here are based on the international models, as Capital Smart Motors has not yet released the official specs of the RD6 variant they are bringing to Pakistan.
Engine and Performance
BYD Shark 6 is a plug-in hybrid, combining petrol backup with electric drive for extended range and high efficiency. The RD6, being fully electric, is typically more cost-effective to operate. However, the Shark 6 maintains a strong efficiency advantage as well. BYD claims it can deliver up to 50 km/l due to its PHEV architecture.
| Feature |
BYD Shark 6 |
Riddara RD6 |
| Powertrain |
PHEV (Dual Motor) |
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) |
| Engine |
1.5-liter Turbo Hybrid (Dual Electric Motors) |
Not Applicable |
| Max Power |
430 HP |
436 HP |
| Max Torque |
650 Nm |
650 Nm |
| Acceleration (0–100 km/h) |
5.7 seconds |
4.5 seconds |
| Drive System |
AWD |
AWD |
| AC Power Output Support |
Yes |
Yes |
| Range |
800 km (ADR 81/02, Combined) |
410 km (CLTC) |
| Battery Capacity |
29.58 kWh |
86 kWh |
| Charging Time (AC, 20-80%) |
Not applicable |
11 hrs (6.6 kW) |
| Charging Time (DC, 30-80%) |
Not applicable |
32 mins (100 kW) |
Dimensions
The Shark 6 is larger in every dimension, offering a longer wheelbase and higher stance, which translates to a roomier cabin and potentially improved off-road capability.
| Feature |
BYD Shark 6 |
Riddara RD6 |
| Length |
5,457 mm |
5,260 mm |
| Width |
1,971 mm |
1,900 mm |
| Height |
1,925 mm |
1,880 mm |
| Wheelbase |
3,260 mm |
3,120 mm |
| Ground Clearance |
212 mm |
225 mm |
| Towing Capacity |
2,500 Kg |
3,000 Kg |
Interior Features
Both models offer dual-zone climate and artificial leather seats. Shark 6 has more powerful audio and slightly larger infotainment screens, favoring a somewhat more tech-rich cabin.
| Feature |
BYD Shark 6 |
Riddara RD6 |
| Infotainment Display |
15.6” Center + 10.25” Cluster |
14.6” Center + 10.2” Cluster |
| Seat Adjustment |
8-way Electric (Driver), 4-way Electric (Passenger) |
6-way Electric (Driver), 4-way Electric (Passenger) |
| Upholstery |
Artificial Leather |
Artificial Leather |
| Climate Control |
Dual Zone, rear vents |
Dual Zone, rear vents |
| Audio |
12 Dynaudio |
8 Speakers |
| Wireless Charging |
Yes |
Yes |
Exterior Features
LED lighting is standard on both. Shark 6 adds a panoramic sunroof, enhancing openness, while RD6 features a power liftgate for added convenience.
| Feature |
BYD Shark 6 |
Riddara RD6 |
| Headlamps |
LED |
LED |
| Fog Lamps |
LED |
LED |
| Sunroof |
Not available |
Not Available |
| Alloy Wheels |
18-inch |
18-inch |
| Power Tailgate |
Not specified |
Yes |
Safety Features
Both models are evenly matched in safety, offering six airbags, blind spot monitoring, 360° cameras, and advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
| Feature |
BYD Shark 6 |
Riddara RD6 |
| Airbags |
6 (Front, Side, Curtain) |
6 (Front, Side, Curtain) |
| ABS + ESC |
Yes |
Yes |
| Blind Spot Monitoring |
Yes |
Yes |
| 360° Surround Camera |
Yes |
Yes |
| Lane Departure Warning |
Yes |
Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control |
Yes |
Yes |
| Hill Descent Control |
Yes |
Yes |
Let us know what you think about this comparison.