Ford Ranger PHEV vs BYD Shark 6 vs GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: The Spec Comparison You Need

Here at MRT, we’re always on the lookout for the latest in vehicle technology – and Australia is about to be spoilt for choice with three plug-in hybrid utes set to hit the market. Ford’s forthcoming Ranger PHEV is gearing up to join the ranks of the already available BYD Shark 6 and the GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV.

Ford has recently unveiled its pricing for the new Ranger PHEV range, with the first deliveries expected from mid-2025. BYD, on the other hand, began deliveries of the Shark 6 back in January, while the Cannon Alpha PHEV is scheduled to arrive in April.

Each ute has its own unique character. The Cannon Alpha PHEV and the Ranger PHEV are engineered to mirror the robust off-road and towing capabilities of their traditional petrol versions, whereas the Shark 6 has been designed as a lifestyle ute, catering to those who value versatility and modern style.

While our team at MRT has had the pleasure of test-driving both the Shark 6 and the Cannon Alpha PHEV, the Ranger PHEV remains on our radar for its future launch – for now, we can only compare its spec sheet to its Chinese competitors.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the key differences between these plug-in hybrid utes, based on the latest specifications available:

Trim & Pricing

• BYD Shark 6: Available in one premium variant, priced at $57,900 (excluding on-road costs).
• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV: Offered in two trims – Lux at $63,990 drive-away and Ultra at $68,990 drive-away.
• Ford Ranger PHEV: Set to be available in four versions, from the XLT at $71,990 (before on-road costs) to the Stormtrak at $86,990 (before on-road costs).

Drivetrains & Efficiency

• BYD Shark 6:
  • 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 135kW and 260Nm.
  • Dual electric motors (170kW front, 150kW rear) totalling 321kW and 650Nm.
  • Single-speed reduction gear with e-AWD, 29.58kWh battery delivering 100km of electric-only range.
  • Fuel consumption as low as 2L/100km (optimised) and supports charging up to 7kW AC and 55kW DC.
• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV:
  • Powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 180kW and 380Nm.
  • Coupled with a 120kW electric motor, the system delivers 300kW and 750Nm.
  • 9-speed automatic gearbox with 4×4 drive, paired with a 37.1kWh battery that offers an electric range of 110km.
  • Exceptional fuel efficiency at 1.7L/100km, with a maximum AC charge rate of 6.6kW and 50kW DC.
• Ford Ranger PHEV:
  • Features a 2.3L 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 138kW and 411Nm.
  • An electric motor (75kW, details pending) combines for a total of 207kW and 697Nm.
  • 10-speed automatic with full-time 4×4, along with an 11.8kWh battery for a 49km electric-only range.
  • Fuel consumption sits at 2.9L/100km, with a maximum AC charging rate of 3.5kW.

Dimensions & Capabilities

• BYD Shark 6:
  • Measures 5457mm in length, 1971mm wide (excluding mirrors), and 1925mm high with a 3260mm wheelbase.
  • Features a 31° approach angle, 19.3° departure angle, and 17° ramp breakover, with a wading depth of 700mm.
• GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV:
  • Slightly shorter at 5445mm long, 1991mm wide, and 1924mm high, with a 3350mm wheelbase.
  • Boasts a 28.5° approach angle, 23° departure angle, and 19° ramp breakover, along with an 800mm wading depth.
• Ford Ranger PHEV:
  • Length of 5350mm, 1924mm wide, and height ranging between 1871–1883mm, with a 3270mm wheelbase.
  • Offers approach angles from 28.9° to 30.2°, departure angles between 23.9° and 24.7°, and ramp breakover of 19.6–20.6°, matching an 800mm wading depth.

Servicing, Warranty & Safety

• Warranty & Servicing:
  • The BYD Shark 6 comes with a 6-year/150,000km warranty (8 years/160,000km for the battery), while the Cannon Alpha PHEV offers a 7-year warranty with unlimited kilometres and an 8-year battery warranty. The Ranger PHEV offers a 5-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, with battery details to be confirmed.
  • Roadside assistance and service intervals vary – for instance, the Shark 6 renews roadside assistance every 12 months at service.
• Safety:
  • All three models are expected to earn 5-star ANCAP ratings. The Shark 6 is the only model tested so far, with the Cannon Alpha and Ranger PHEV anticipated to mirror the safety credentials of their conventional counterparts.
  • Standard safety features across all models include autonomous emergency braking, detection systems for cars, pedestrians, and cyclists, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, lane assist systems, a reversing camera, traffic sign recognition, and tyre pressure monitoring.

Standard Equipment Highlights

Each ute comes packed with features:

• Lighting: The Shark 6 and Cannon Alpha are fitted with LED headlights, while the Ranger PHEV offers halogen on the XLT, LED on the Sport, and Matrix LED on the Wildtrak and above.
• Wheels & Brakes: While the Shark 6 and Cannon Alpha feature standard 18-inch wheels with disc brakes at both ends, the Ranger’s configuration varies by trim.
• Power Outlets & Displays: Multiple power outlet options cater to different needs across the models, complemented by digital instrument clusters and infotainment systems ranging in size from 8-inch to 15.6-inch.
• Sound Systems: High-quality audio setups are standard, with the Shark 6 boasting a 12-speaker Dynaudio system, the Cannon Alpha offering either 6 or 10 speakers, and the Ranger stepping up from 6-speaker systems to a premium 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen in higher trims.

Get Ready for MRT’s Shark 6 Compatible Canopies

At MRT, we’re committed to supporting the latest vehicle technology. With our deposit already down, our team is preparing to design, test, and release a range of compatible accessories for the BYD Shark 6 as soon as it arrives. From rugged trays to custom canopies, our products will be crafted to perfectly match the Shark 6’s specifications, enhancing storage, utility, and style.

Our package offerings for the Shark 6 will include:

• Initiator Package: Ideal for practical storage and everyday utility without compromising on style, perfect for new ute owners.
• Explorer Package: Tailored for adventurers with robust canopies and extra storage for all your gear.
• Tradesman Package: Built tough for tradies, offering secure and easy-access storage solutions.
• Companion Package: A versatile option for everyday use, providing ample storage for camping equipment, sports gear, and more.

Each package is designed with flexibility in mind, ensuring the Shark 6 isn’t just another ute but a reliable companion for work, adventure, and family life.

MRT will soon get their hands on the BYD Shark 6, and we’re also set to order the Ford Ranger PHEV and GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV as they become available. Our research and development team is eager to start working on innovative solutions that enhance the capabilities of these exciting new vehicles.

Stay tuned to MRT for more updates, reviews, and cutting-edge accessory launches tailored to keep your ute at the forefront of performance and practicality.