Top marks for BYD Shark 6 in ANCAP testing

BYD’s Shark 6, NZ Autocar’s recently crowned 2024 CoTY, is the first plug-in hybrid ute (PHEV) to undergo local ANCAP testing. And it has passed with flying colours, warranting the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating.

It scored 85 per cent for Adult Occupant Protection, and 87 per cent for Child Occupant Protection. 

Vulnerable Road User Protection rated 74 per cent while it managed 86 per cent for Safety Assist features.

See our review of BYD Shark 6 here.

ANCAP chief executive Carla Hoorweg commented “With five of BYD’s current local models having now earned top ANCAP safety ratings, it’s evident that new manufacturers are prioritising safety as they enter the market to align with consumer demands.”

“We expect to see an increase in electrified options in the utility space. And so far, they’re meeting the mark.”

In the frontal offset test, the passenger cabin remained stable. All key body regions recording a ranking of Good protection rating, except for the driver’s chest which was Adequate. 

Due to its size, the BYD SHARK 6 poses a higher risk to occupants of oncoming vehicles in crash situations. That resulted in the full 8.00 point penalty being applied in the vehicle-to-vehicle compatibility test.

The good score for Child Occupant Protection was driven by the SHARK 6’s performance in the frontal offset and side impact tests. Protection for both dummy sizes was deemed Good, the vehicle earning maximum points. A Child Presence Detection (CPD) system is fitted as standard across all three rear seats but does not meet ANCAP’s functional requirements, losing points for that.

The Shark 6 demonstrated Good performance in AEB Pedestrian and Cyclist scenarios. Additionally, the vehicle provides alerts when a bicycle is approaching from behind to prevent cyclist ‘dooring’.

“For fleets looking to electrify their light commercial ute range, the Shark 6 presents a new five-star plug-in hybrid option,” said ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg.