BYD unveils Mako plug-in hybrid pickup in Brazil

A gas-spring-assisted tailgate lifts at the back of BYD’s new Mako, a small mechanical touch aimed at the moment a pickup bed is carrying a load. The mid-size truck was unveiled in Brazil on August 27, 2026, as BYD’s second pickup, alongside the existing Shark.

Under the hood, the Mako combines a naturally aspirated 1.5L four-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a 12.9 kWh battery through BYD’s fifth-generation DM system, short for Dual Mode. The engine alone produces 73 kW (98 hp) and 12.4 kg·m of torque; together, the system delivers 166 kW (223 hp) and 40.8 kg·m of combined torque. Its first configuration uses a DHT automatic transmission — a hybrid transmission — and front-wheel drive.

The truck is built on BYD’s Song Plus platform and keeps the SUV’s visual cues: an oversized front grille, full-width LED rear lights and black protective body elements. Inside, it has a digital instrument cluster and a floating central screen estimated at 15.6 inches, running BYD’s DiLink 100 system. The chassis uses independent suspension at both ends, while reinforced springs and shock absorbers are intended to cope with cargo in the bed.

The Mako also brings an 18-inch wheel and tyre setup, front parking sensors, a 360-degree panoramic imaging system and a tow hitch for light trailers or jet skis. The powertrain is compatible with ethanol fuel, aligning the truck with Brazilian energy preferences. BYD is expected to introduce a four-wheel-drive version later, likely with a rear-mounted motor enabling pure-electric four-wheel drive.

So what changes in practice? Brazil is set to get a mid-size pickup combining a hybrid system with everyday load and towing equipment, at an expected 200,000 to 220,000 Brazilian Reais. BYD plans a September 2026 launch, initially with vehicles imported from China, before eventually moving production to its Camaçari plant in Bahia. That plant is expected to build the Mako alongside the Song Pro and Dolphin. The price is an expectation, and the four-wheel-drive version remains unlaunched.