Best Electric Ute for Tradies & Families
Is the BYD Shark 6 the right electric ute for your trade or family needs? A comprehensive guide to help you decide.
Why Consider an Electric Ute?
Electric and plug-in hybrid utes like the BYD Shark 6 offer significant advantages for Australian tradies and families. Lower running costs, reduced emissions, and instant torque make them compelling alternatives to traditional diesel utes, especially for those who can charge at home.
The BYD Shark 6's plug-in hybrid system provides the best of both worlds: electric-only driving for daily commutes and local jobs, with petrol backup for longer trips and heavy towing. This eliminates range anxiety while still delivering substantial fuel savings.
For Tradies: Work Capability
Real-World Tradie Scenarios
Perfect fit. Tools and equipment easily within 835kg payload. Most jobs within 100km electric range means minimal fuel costs. Can charge overnight at home between jobs.
Good fit. Payload handles most building materials and tools. May need to manage loads carefully when carrying heavy materials like bricks or concrete. Towing capacity sufficient for most equipment trailers.
Excellent fit. Towing capacity handles mowers, excavators, and material trailers. Electric power ideal for local residential jobs. Payload sufficient for tools, plants, and landscaping materials.
For Families: Lifestyle Fit
The BYD Shark 6 serves as an excellent family vehicle, combining the practicality of a ute with the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid. The dual-cab configuration provides seating for five, while the tray offers versatile cargo space for family adventures.
Family Use Cases
The 2500kg towing capacity handles most family caravans and camper trailers. Electric-only mode perfect for daily school runs and local errands, with petrol backup for weekend getaways and camping trips.
Tray space accommodates bikes, kayaks, surfboards, and sports equipment. Can tow boat trailers for fishing trips. Payload sufficient for camping gear, sporting equipment, and family luggage.
100km electric range covers most Australian commutes entirely on electric power. Charge overnight at home for near-zero daily running costs. Petrol engine provides backup for longer trips without range anxiety.
Charging Considerations
For both tradies and families, home charging is essential to maximize the Shark 6's benefits. With a standard wall outlet (10A), you can fully charge the 29.6kWh battery overnight in approximately 12-14 hours. A dedicated EV charger (7kW) reduces this to around 4-5 hours.
Tradies working locally can charge overnight and run electric-only for most jobs, dramatically reducing fuel costs. Families can charge overnight for daily commutes and school runs, using petrol only for longer weekend trips.
Cost Savings Analysis
Scenario: 15,000km annual driving, 70% electric / 30% petrol
Diesel ute fuel cost: ~$3,000/year (10L/100km @ $2.00/L)
Shark 6 running cost: ~$1,200/year (electricity + petrol)
Annual savings: ~$1,800
Over 5 years, this represents $9,000 in fuel savings, significantly offsetting the purchase price difference compared to diesel alternatives.
Is the Shark 6 Right for You?
The BYD Shark 6 is an excellent choice for tradies and families who can charge at home and have typical Australian use cases. Its 835kg payload and 2500kg towing capacity cover the majority of work and lifestyle needs, while the 100km electric range delivers substantial fuel savings for daily driving.
However, if you regularly carry extremely heavy loads (approaching 1000kg), tow loads exceeding 2500kg, or cannot charge at home, a traditional diesel ute may be more suitable. Use our calculator to see how the Shark 6 matches your specific requirements.