BYD Expands Ethiopia Line-up With Hybrid Pickup Launch

May 28, 2026

Mintesinot Nigussie

MOENCO has moved beyond fully electric vehicles in Ethiopia with the introduction of the BYD Shark 6, a plug in hybrid pickup the company says is built to operate across both congested urban centres and the country’s demanding rural routes.

Presented at the Addis Ababa Science Museum during a launch event, the new model enters a domestic automotive market where hybrid technology is still at an early stage and consumer confidence remains closely tied to after-sales support and reliability guarantees.

To address those concerns, the dealership announced an eight year warranty for the vehicle’s battery alongside a six year warranty covering the vehicle itself. The company also said it has secured supplies of genuine spare parts and established dedicated maintenance services supported by specialised facilities.

The Shark 6 combines an electric drivetrain with an internal combustion engine, allowing drivers to use battery power in city traffic while relying on fuel for longer journeys and difficult terrain.

The setup is intended to reduce concerns linked to charging access and driving range, issues that continue to shape purchasing decisions in emerging electric vehicle markets.

MOENCO, the sole authorised distributor of BYD vehicles in Ethiopia, said the pickup is expected to attract logistics companies, commercial fleet operators and private customers seeking lower fuel expenses without sacrificing flexibility for intercity transport and off road travel.

The launch marks another step in the company’s efforts to broaden Ethiopia’s alternative energy vehicle market, which until recently has been dominated largely by conventional fuel powered models and a limited number of fully electric imports.