Ford CEO Jim Farley recently spent several days in Australia evaluating two Chinese plug-in hybrid pickup models: the BYD Shark 6 and the GWM Cannon Alpha. He also tested a Toyota Land Cruiser 70. Farley acknowledged the Chinese models' surprising competitiveness, though he characterized them as "different beasts" to Australian media, emphasizing that their suitability hinges on intended use.

Farley, who in 2024 notably expressed his enjoyment of driving a Xiaomi SU7 electric car so much he didn't want to return it, noted the BYD Shark 6 appears like a conventional pickup until tasked with performing like a true workhorse. "The Shark is a pickup, but if you put 500 kg in the bed, it's not a Ranger, nor is it a Hilux," Farley told Drive. He suggested the Shark may suit buyers who desire a pickup's look but do not frequently haul heavy items or tow large loads. This distinction poses a challenge for Ford, as Farley recognizes that not every Ranger owner uses their vehicle as Ford engineers designed.

BYD Shark 6 (left) and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV in Australia. *Photo: Drive*

Farley's assessment of the Shark 6, while not entirely complimentary, was more favorable than feedback from Mitsubishi senior engineer Kaoru Sawase. Sawase, who tested the plug-in hybrid at his company's test track in 2025, remarked, "They can climb slopes, but not for long. They climb for a while, then stop; the protection system activates. I feel that developing electric off-road vehicles is a challenge." Additionally, Farley expressed concern that Ford engineers, after disassembling the BYD pickup, are still struggling to grasp its economics.

Farley also tested the GWM Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), identifying it as another formidable competitor entering the segment. However, he believes established companies like Ford and Toyota retain a significant advantage due to decades of experience in specialized pickup manufacturing.

Despite these advantages, the Ford executive acknowledged the rapidly evolving market. Chinese brands are aggressively targeting the global mid-size pickup segment, traditionally one of the industry's most stable profit sources. This competition is not just emerging; it is already present in many markets, such as Australia. While the US market remains secure for now, there is no guarantee this will hold true in another 10 years.