Tesla Rival BYD Teases First Electric Pickup Truck Ahead Of 2024 Reveal

Ahead of its official reveal, Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams) has released teaser images of its first-ever electric pickup truck. Destined to be sold globally, this mid- to full-size truck will go up against segment stalwarts such as the Rivian R1T, Ford F-150 Lightning, and several other electrified pickups sold in different markets.

Draped in blue and orange camouflage, it isn’t easy to make out the design of the battery-powered truck. However, BYD’s first electric pickup will be an imposing machine with a squared-off, muscular design that truck buyers will adore. Unlike its rivals, it would appear the Chinese contender will adopt a traditional body-on-frame setup, with the bed separate from the cab.

Several electric pickups make use of the unibody construction. While this is better for packaging, it reduces load and towing capacity. It will be interesting to see whether BYD utilizes leaf springs for the rear or independent suspension, as seen on the F-150 Lightning (another EV truck with a body-on-frame chassis).

BYD has confirmed that the battery-electric pickup will be introduced sometime in 2024 but hasn’t shared additional details beyond that. As a result, there’s no information regarding potential pricing, available drivetrains, or where the vehicle will be sold, but don’t get your hopes up.

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Despite America’s position as the largest truck market in the world, it’s unlikely that it will make its way to the States. Stella Li, CEO of BYD Americas, said that while the United States was an interesting market, the company has no plans to sell its cars here. “We’re not planning to come to the US,” said Li. “It’s an interesting market, but it is very complicated.”

BYD has an active presence in myriad international markets, including Thailand, Australia, and South Africa, all of which are big consumers of pickup trucks.

The electric pickup truck will expand BYD’s diverse lineup, including sensible electric sedans, affordable hatchbacks, and high-end vehicles. Under its all-electric luxury sub-brand YangWang, the automaker has released the alluring U9 supercar, a 1,300-horsepower creation with blistering acceleration.

BYD also offers the incredibly powerful U8 off-roader, which can float on water for up to 30 minutes. It remains to be seen whether the upcoming pickup will borrow technology from the aforementioned Yangwang duo, but that would likely push the price up considerably.

While there’s little chance of the new truck reaching the US, BYD intends to infiltrate the North American market with plans to sell its vehicles in Mexico. The automaker is predicted to establish a facility in the country, with an official announcement expected around June. Perhaps the new truck will be built closer to home than we thought.

Tesla Rival BYD Teases First Electric Pickup Truck Ahead Of 2024 Reveal