Australian’s have always had a passion for utes, we invented them afterall. So it comes as no surprise to hear BYD have just sold more than 12,000 of its plug-in hybrid 4×4 dual-cab ute, the Shark 6, in a very short period of time.
While that is a significant milestone, BYD is missing out on an equally significant chunk of the trades sector, as well as the recreational four-wheel drive touring market, due to a relatively low payload capacity of 790kg.
Thanks to the partnership with Australian four-wheel drive accessory outlet, Ironman 4×4, who now offer Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) suspension upgrades, the Shark 6 will legally be able to carry an additional 350kg.
It will cost you though, as parts and certification for this upgrade aren’t cheap. However, it will prove to be a very worthwhile investment if carting tools and bulky four-wheel drive equipment around is your idea of a good time.
What kits are available?
A one sized fits all approach is never a great option when it comes to setting up suspension. There are three kits available to cater for what constant loads the vehicle is carrying. Think barwork, a canopy, set of drawers and so on. If it lives on the vehicle, that’s a constant load.
If you specify too high of a spring rate, and don’t carry those weights, you ruin the risk of the vehicle riding harshly. So it’s great to see options for different applications.
Kits available are:
- Medium Kit – This kit suits those with occasional additional loads up to 3850kg
- Heavy Kit – This kit suits those carrying a constant load of 300kg or more
- Extra Heavy Kit – This kit suits those carrying a constant load of 600kg or more
Tech specs
- Front axle capacity has been raised from 1610kg to 1800 kg
- Rear axle capacity has been raised from 1945kg to 2150kg
Pre and post rego certification
Thankfully, there are options for both pre-and-post registered BYD Sharks. All kits are available for vehicles that have not yet been road registered.
Two post-registration options also available for those who are already out driving their Shark 6. This will vary state-to-state, so it is best to check with a stockist for what works for your part of Australia.
Pricing
Pricing for the Ironman 4×4 GVM upgrade kit to suit the BYD Shark 6 starts from $4190. That price includes installation. You will need to have the GVM upgrade kit fitted via an Ironman 4×4 store, or an approved distributor. Certification costs need to be looked into as well.
You can find a list of stockists and more information on this upgrade here.