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Lynk & Co
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Lynk & Co Automotive Technology Co., Ltd,[4][5] trading as Lynk & Co, is a Chinese[6] automotive brand headquartered in Hangzhou, China, and co-owned by Chinese automobile manufacturers Geely Auto and Zeekr Group.[7][8][9] It was established in 2016, as a three-way joint venture between Volvo Cars, Geely Auto Group and Geely Holding.[10] In November 2024, its ownership structure was revised, resulting in Zeekr holding a 51% stake, while Geely Auto holds the remaining 49%.[11]
Key Information
Within the Geely group, the brand positioned itself as a startup-like company by introducing innovative sales models such as direct-to-consumer sales model and subscription model to market its vehicles.[12] Lynk & Co shares its technology such as engine and platform with Volvo and Geely vehicles.[13]
Name
[edit]The name Lynk & Co was coined from an internal code for the brand, "Lynk", which refers to interconnected cars, while the "& Co" part (a common business name abbreviation for 'and company')[14] was a moniker added to give the name a "young vibe".[13] Its full name was conceived from a casual conversation between Geely executives in a taxi, where they drew inspiration from fashion labels such as Pull & Bear and Abercrombie & Fitch to suit the global market. The brand name was formalised within just three days after the conversation.[12]
Initially, American automaker Ford raised objections to the name due to its similarity to its luxury brand, Lincoln.[15] Lynk & Co argued it was an unintentional coincidence, and Ford later withdrew its threat of legal action.[12]
History
[edit]
Lynk & Co was launched in 2016 with three production models, all based on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) developed by China Euro Vehicle Technology (CEVT) and used also by Volvo, Polestar and Geely.[13] According to Geely designer Peter Horbury, the intention was "to position it between Volvo and Geely as a so-called 'near premium' brand".[16]
In August 2017, Zhejiang Geely Holding, Geely Automobile Holdings and Volvo Car Group signed an agreement at Geely Auto's Hangzhou Bay R&D Center to establish the Lynk & Co joint venture. Under this agreement, Geely Auto controls 50% of Lynk & Co, Volvo held 30%, and Zhejiang Geely Holding held the remaining 20%.[17]
The first product announced by Lynk & Co was the 01 crossover, the production version first shown at the 2017 Auto Shanghai show.[18] Production of the 01 started in China in 2017, in Volvo's production plant in Luqiao district in the city of Taizhou, China,[19][20] sharing the same production line as the Volvo XC40 and the Polestar.[21][22] Since then, Lynk & Co have used three other manufacturing plants. The 02, 02 Hatchback and 03 are manufactured at the Zhangjiakou plant, while the 01, 06, 08 and 09 are manufactured at the Meishan plant 50 km from Ningbo.[23] The 05 and 07 are manufactured at Geely's Luqiao CMA Super Factory.
A concept version of the second model, the 03 sedan, was first shown along with the production 01 in Shanghai.[18][24] The third model, also based on the platform shared with the Volvo XC40, is the 02. Smaller than the 01, it is a hatchback with styling reminiscent of a crossover.[25][20] Lynk & Co had originally planned to launch the Lynk & Co 04 as a compact hatchback,[26] however, by 2020 it was cancelled and the nameplate was devoted to an electric scooter instead.
In September 2020, at the Beijing Auto Show, the Lynk & Co Zero concept was revealed to the public. It was expected to be the first fully electric vehicle from Lynk & Co, but instead it became the first model from the new electric vehicle brand, Zeekr, as the Zeekr 001.[27]
Restructuring in 2024
[edit]In November 2024, the equity structures of Geely Auto, Zeekr, and Lynk & Co were revised as part of Geely Holding Group's restructuring strategy.[28] Geely Holding Group transferred its 11.3% stake in Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Zeekr) to Geely Automobile Holdings (Geely Auto), increasing Geely Auto's shareholding in Zeekr to 62.8%.[29][30] Zeekr subsequently acquired a 20% stake in Lynk & Co from Geely Auto for 3.6 billion yuan, as well as Volvo Cars' 30% stake in Lynk & Co for 5.4 billion yuan.[31] These transactions raised Zeekr's ownership in Lynk & Co to 51%, with the remaining 49% still held by Geely Auto.[29][30]
Headquarters
[edit]Lynk & Co has its headquarters near Karlatornet in Gothenburg, Sweden.[32] In 2022, the headquarters building won architectural award for best interior design.[33][34]
Corporate Leadership
[edit]Current
[edit]- Nicolas Lopez Appelgren (CEO of Lynk & Co Europe since January 2024)[35]
- Liu Xiangyang (CEO of Lynk & Co Chinese and global operations since 2024)
Previous Chief Executive Officers
[edit]- Alain Visser (2017–2024)[36]
Marketing
[edit]
Lynk & Co uses a direct-to-consumer sales model in most markets, in contrast to the traditional dealership model. The brand was influenced by Tesla which has had success doing direct sales.[37] Each car is ordered directly by the buyer and customized using equipment packages, either online or via a retail outlet.[38] Lynk & Co also offers vehicle subscription services to customers.[39]
The brand opened 221 retail outlets in China as of 2019, and expanded to Europe in 2020.[40] In China, Lynk & Co vehicles are distributed by Lynk & Co Auto Sales Co., Ltd.
Lynk & Co will sell its cars in Brazil from 2026 with its own operations, independent of Zeekr or any partnership with the Renault Group.[41]
Overseas markets
[edit]The brand only offers electric and plug-in hybrid models in Europe.[42][43] While the sales are steady in China, its European business created huge loss and in total for 2020–2021 the company made a loss of 1 billion Swedish kronor, or about 100 million euros.[44]
In Europe, Lynk & Co is only available in Sweden, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Spain, France, and Italy. In 2024, Lynk & Co appointed automobile group SEEAG to expand their business in southeast Europe, starting with Romania and Greece, then followed by Slovenia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania, and Moldova during 2024.[45][46]
In 2021, Geely announced that the Lynk & Co brand will enter Russia, Malaysia, Australia, and New Zealand by 2025.[47] In May 2023, Lynk & Co entered Middle Eastern markets, starting with Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.[48][49] Lynk & Co debuted in the Philippines in March 2024 through United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. (UAAGI), which is the Philippine distributor.[50]
Since 2018, Lynk & Co has been considering entering the US market.[51] Plans were made to establish a San Francisco headquarters by 2020.[52] However, progress has been minimal. In 2023, the company revealed plans to introduce its first electric vehicle in the US by 2024, utilizing the subscription-based strategy that it already deployed in Europe.[53]
Products
[edit]Current models
[edit]- Lynk & Co 01 (2017–present), compact SUV, ICE/PHEV
- Lynk & Co 03 (2018–present), compact sedan, ICE/PHEV
- Lynk & Co 05 (2019–present), compact coupe SUV
- Lynk & Co 06 (2020–present), subcompact SUV, ICE/PHEV
- Lynk & Co 07 (2024–present), mid-size sedan, PHEV
- Lynk & Co 08 (2023–present), mid-size SUV, PHEV
- Lynk & Co 09 (2021–present), mid-size SUV, ICE/PHEV
- Lynk & Co 10 (2025–present), full-size sedan, PHEV
- Lynk & Co 900 (2025–present), full-size SUV, PHEV
- Lynk & Co Z10 (2024–present), full-size sedan, BEV
- Lynk & Co Z20 (2024–present), compact SUV, BEV
-
Lynk & Co 06 EM-P
-
Lynk & Co 07 EM-P
-
Lynk & Co 08 EM-P
Discontinued models
[edit]- Lynk & Co 02 / 02 Hatchback (2018–2023), compact hatchback/SUV
Motorsport
[edit]
Since 2019, Lynk & Co has sponsored Cyan Racing (formerly Polestar Racing) and entered the WTCR World Touring Car Cup (now the TCR World Tour), becoming the first Chinese brand to take part in an FIA championship. The team ran four Lynk & Co cars in the 2019 WTCR, claiming the teams' title and Yvan Muller finishing third in the drivers' championship.[54]
Controversy
[edit]On 13 December 2024, Lynk & Co.'s vehicle control app suddenly became unavailable due to an abnormality. The official response was that the cloud server experienced abnormal fluctuations and there was no estimated recovery time. At the same time, Geely's investment in Ji Yue also fell into operational difficulties, which aroused speculation and attention from the outside world.[55]
Sales
[edit]| Year | Sales[56][57] |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 6,012 |
| 2018 | 120,414 |
| 2019 | 128,066 |
| 2020 | 175,456 |
| 2021 | 220,516 |
| 2022 | 180,127 |
| 2023 | 220,250 |
| 2024 | 285,441[58] |
| 2025 | 350,495[59] |
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "极氪完成收购领克:安聪慧任极氪科技CEO,刘向阳任领克品牌CEO". finance.sina.com.cn. Retrieved 30 May 2025.
- ^ Gibbs, Nick (3 January 2024). "Geely's Lynk & Co brand appoints new international boss". Automotive News Europe. Retrieved 14 April 2024.
- ^ "Legal notice". Archived from the original on 3 March 2021. Retrieved 4 October 2025.
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- ^ "Volvo Cars sells 30 per cent stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr". www.media.volvocars.com. Retrieved 15 March 2025.
- ^ a b c Holmes, Freddie (10 September 2019). "Interview: Alain Visser, Chief Executive, Lynk & Co International". Automotive World. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ a b c Feijter, Tycho De. "Volvo And China's Geely Collaborate On 'Connected' Car Brand, Lynk & Co". Forbes. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
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- ^ Posky, Matt (31 July 2017). "Ford Challenges Lynk & Co for Sounding Too Much Like Lincoln". thetruthaboutcars.com. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ "Lynk & Co – Case by Lynxeye". lynxeye.com. Retrieved 1 October 2023.
- ^ "Geely And Volvo Cars Sign Joint Venture Agreements on Technology-Sharing and Development of LYNK & CO". Media Center - Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. Retrieved 21 May 2024.
- ^ a b "Lynk & Co reveals production-ready 01 SUV at Shanghai Motor Show". Auto Express. 19 April 2017. Retrieved 5 June 2018.
- ^ Duff, Mike (20 October 2016). "Volvo's Geely Launches New Auto Brand, Lynk & Co, and It's Headed to the U.S." Car and Driver. Archived from the original on 25 October 2016. Retrieved 21 October 2016.
- ^ a b "Lynk & Co Unveils the 02 SUV, Its Third Vehicle". Car and Driver. 27 March 2018. Retrieved 5 June 2018.
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- ^ "Volvo Cars starts Chinese production of XC40 small SUV in multi-brand Luqiao plant". media.volvocars.com. Retrieved 1 October 2023.
- ^ Bobylev, Denis (28 August 2023). "Lynk & Co 08 rolled off the production line in China with 593 hp and 1,400 km of range". CarNewsChina.com. Retrieved 7 December 2023.
- ^ "Lynk & Co Debuts 03 Concept and Announces Lifetime Warranty, Free Connectivity". Car and Driver. 17 April 2017. Retrieved 5 June 2018.
- ^ "Lynk & Co 02". Car and Driver. 1 June 2018. Retrieved 5 June 2018.
- ^ "2019 Lynk & Co. 04 spy shots". Motor Authority. 18 January 2019. Retrieved 11 September 2021.
- ^ Ruffo, Gustavo Henrique (3 October 2023). "ZEEKR's Main Mission Is to Detach From Lynk & Co, and ZEEKR X Represents the First Step". autoevolution. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ "Geely Holding restructures equity stakes in ZEEKR, Lynk & Co". Gasgoo. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ a b 澎湃新闻 (14 November 2024). "吉利旗下极氪、领克"整合":极氪斥资超93亿元获领克51%股权". finance.sina.com.cn. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ a b 界面新闻 (14 November 2024). "极氪与领克合并,吉利从大扩张走向大整合". finance.sina.com.cn. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ "Volvo Cars sells 30 per cent stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr". www.media.volvocars.com. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ "Kinesiskt bolag öppnar huvudkontor på Hisingen". helahisingen.se (in Swedish). 22 December 2020. Retrieved 23 December 2023.
- ^ Magnusson, Johan (24 April 2023). "Mobility brand strived for "perfect imperfection" when designing its Gothenburg HQ". Scandinavian MIND. Retrieved 23 December 2023.
- ^ Kesselfors, Sanna (22 March 2017). "Link vinner internationellt arkitekturpris". Byggnyheter (in Swedish). Retrieved 23 December 2023.
- ^ https://www.autonews.com/move/ex-volvo-exec-appoints-new-international-boss-lynk-co/
- ^ https://press.lynkco.com/en-WW/233184-nicolas-lopez-appelgren-appointed-as-ceo-of-lynk-co-in-europe/#:~:text=He%20will%20be%20succeeded%20by,through%20more%20direct%20response%20channels.&text=Prior%20to%20becoming%20CEO%20of,vehicles%20technology%20and%20business%20models.
- ^ "Lynk & Co Brand to Do without Dealerships, Sell "Smartphones on Wheels"". Car and Driver. Archived from the original on 29 November 2022. Retrieved 24 October 2016.
- ^ "Lynk&Co 01 SUV gets Geely's new global brand rolling | Autocar". autocar.co.uk. Autocar. 19 October 2016. Retrieved 24 October 2016.
- ^ "Lynk & Co will "change the industry" with Netflix-style service for cars says Alain Visser". Dezeen. 23 April 2019. Retrieved 10 October 2019.
- ^ "Lynk & Co sold 120,414 cars, established 221 retail outlets in 2018 – first European stores to open in 2020 – paultan.org". Paul Tan's Automotive News. 28 January 2019. Retrieved 1 December 2023.
- ^ "Lynk & Co confirma chegada ao Brasil em 2026 com operação própria". Motor1.com (in Brazilian Portuguese). Retrieved 4 May 2025.
- ^ "Lynk & CO looks to further European growth". Automotive News Europe. 23 May 2023.
- ^ "Lynk & Co. decide against Belgian production | electrive.com". www.electrive.com. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ Lindgren, Patrik (29 August 2022). "Lynk & Co blöder i Europa – miljardförlust". Teknikens Värld (in Swedish). Retrieved 1 October 2023.
- ^ Angel, Sergeev (14 February 2024). "Lynk & Co expands European presence, not coming to UK yet".
- ^ Sempill, John (13 February 2024). "Lynk & Co satsar stort: "Vi ska expandera vår närvaro och leverera riktigt bra bilar"". auto motor & sport (in Swedish). Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ Quick, Jack (20 March 2023). "Lynk & Co 08: Could this Chinese SUV come to Australia?". CarExpert. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ "Lynk & Co 03 and 03+ Models are Ready to Make Their Mark in the Middle East". www.businesswire.com. 15 May 2023. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ "Lynk & Co's Dazzling Launch with NBK Group in Qatar". www.prnewswire.com. 8 October 2023. Retrieved 13 April 2024.
- ^ Anton Andres (24 April 2024). "MIAS 2024: Lynk & Co makes public debut; prices start at P1.488-M for its smallest EV". Top Gear Philippines.
- ^ Bob Nagy (24 October 2016). "Lynk & Co Formed, Coming to America in 2018". Kelley Blue Book.
- ^ Brett Berk (13 June 2022). "Whatever Happened to Lynk & Co, the Promising EV Startup?". Car & Driver.
- ^ Johnson, Peter (2 March 2023). "A new EV brand is prepping to enter the US from the owners of Polestar and Volvo". Electrek. Retrieved 14 April 2024.
- ^ Rodgers, Richard (16 December 2019). "History is made as Lynk & Co becomes first Chinese brand to power an FIA world title win". FIA WTCR | World Touring Car Cup presented by OSCARO. Archived from the original on 18 December 2019. Retrieved 18 December 2019.
- ^ 手机中国 (13 December 2024). "曝极越被中国移动断网 但断错品牌致领克汽车被误伤". 新浪科技. Archived from the original on 16 December 2024. Retrieved 15 December 2024.
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- ^ "【图】同比增长22.8% 领克品牌2025年全年累计销量达350,495台". 汽车之家 (in Chinese (China)). Retrieved 1 January 2026.
External links
[edit]Lynk & Co
View on GrokipediaHistory
Founding and Early Development
Lynk & Co was established in October 2016 as a joint venture between Geely Auto Group, Volvo Cars, and Geely Holding Group, headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden. The brand was positioned as a premium automotive marque emphasizing advanced connectivity, digital integration, and shared mobility solutions to appeal to modern urban lifestyles.[1][9][2] The official brand launch occurred on October 20, 2016, in Berlin, Germany, with a focus on targeting younger urban consumers through innovative features like app-based access and peer-to-peer car sharing. This event highlighted Lynk & Co's ambition to redefine traditional car ownership, including an early emphasis on subscription-based access to vehicles. A key milestone was the preparatory brand reveal in Gothenburg earlier that month, underscoring its Swedish engineering heritage.[10][11][12] In 2017, Lynk & Co introduced its first concept and production model, the 01 compact SUV, which debuted in production form at the Shanghai Auto Show in April. Built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform co-developed by Geely and Volvo for shared use across their brands, the 01 featured initial powertrains such as Volvo-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engines producing around 190 horsepower, paired with front- or all-wheel drive.[13][14][15] The 01 went on sale in China in late November 2017, priced from approximately 158,800 yuan (about $24,000 USD), and quickly met initial sales targets by securing 6,000 pre-orders within 137 seconds of opening. Production occurred at Geely's Luqiao plant in Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, sharing facilities with Volvo models to leverage established manufacturing expertise.[16][17][18]Global Expansion and Growth
Lynk & Co began its European expansion with the opening of its first showroom in the Netherlands in October 2020, followed by sales starting in select markets including Sweden in late 2020 and early 2021. The company extended its presence to additional markets such as Germany and Belgium by 2022. This rollout was supported by a subscription-based model tailored to urban consumers, emphasizing connectivity and shared mobility. By 2022, Lynk & Co had achieved approximately 28,000 vehicle sales across Europe, reflecting steady growth in a competitive premium segment.[19][20][21] To bolster its market penetration, Lynk & Co expanded its product lineup between 2018 and 2020, introducing the 02 compact crossover in 2018, the 03 sedan in the same year, and the 05 coupe SUV in 2019. These models, built on the Compact Modular Architecture shared with Volvo, included hybrid variants to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers in Europe. The diversification from SUVs to sedans and additional powertrain options helped broaden the brand's appeal, with the 03 and 05 models contributing to increased visibility through pop-up stores and experiential marketing in key cities.[22] In 2021, Lynk & Co announced ambitious plans to enter Russia, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East by 2025 as part of Geely's global strategy. The brand achieved its first milestone in this phase with the Middle East launch in May 2023, starting in Kuwait and expanding regionally. Production scaling played a pivotal role, with facilities in China's Taizhou plant ramping up output and the Ghent plant in Belgium commencing assembly of the 01 model in late 2019 to serve European demand more efficiently. These efforts culminated in Lynk & Co reaching 1 million cumulative global sales by November 2023, and surpassing 1.5 million by mid-2025, positioning it as the fastest-growing Chinese premium automotive brand.[23][18][24][25][8][26] Key growth was further driven by deepened partnerships within the Geely ecosystem, including integrations with Volvo for safety technologies and ECARX for advanced infotainment systems that enhanced vehicle connectivity. These collaborations enabled Lynk & Co to leverage shared R&D resources, accelerating the adoption of features like over-the-air updates and seamless digital interfaces across its lineup.[27][28]Restructuring and Recent Developments
In November 2024, Geely Holding Group announced a major restructuring of its automotive portfolio, transferring control of Lynk & Co to its premium electric vehicle subsidiary, Zeekr Group. Under the agreement, Zeekr acquired a 51% stake in Lynk & Co, with Geely Auto retaining the remaining 49%, valuing the brand at approximately 18 billion yuan. This move aimed to streamline operations within Geely's ecosystem by consolidating resources for electric vehicle development and production.[29][30] The transaction closed in February 2025, formally integrating Lynk & Co into Zeekr's operations and enabling shared manufacturing facilities, supply chains, and R&D efforts to boost efficiency in electric and hybrid vehicle production. This integration was expected to generate cost synergies through optimized platform sharing and accelerated electrification strategies, positioning Lynk & Co more competitively in the global new energy vehicle market.[31][32] Following the restructuring, Lynk & Co intensified its focus on premium new energy vehicles, announcing the Lynk & Co 900, a plug-in hybrid 6-seater SUV, in April 2025. The model features a combined range of up to 1,443 km under CLTC testing conditions, depending on the trim, underscoring the brand's push toward advanced hybrid technologies. Market expansions accelerated as well, with plans to enter Mexico in late 2025 via hybrid SUV offerings, while making progress on launches in Russia—where sales began in Q2 2025 through local dealer Orbis Auto—and Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia and Malaysia earlier in the year.[33][34][35][36] Strategically, the alignment with Zeekr emphasized premium electrification, with Lynk & Co adopting shared platforms from Zeekr's architecture for upcoming models like the Z10 and Z20 electric vehicles. This collaboration enhances technological integration, including battery systems and autonomous driving features, to support Lynk & Co's transition toward a fully new energy-oriented lineup under Zeekr's oversight.[5][37]Corporate Structure
Ownership
Lynk & Co was established in October 2016 as Lynk & Co Automotive Technology Co., Ltd., a joint venture under the Geely Holding Group, with Geely Auto Group holding 50% equity, Volvo Cars owning 30%, and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group retaining the remaining 20%.[18] This structure positioned Lynk & Co as a premium automotive brand leveraging technology sharing with Volvo, particularly through the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform for vehicle development. Prior to 2024, Lynk & Co operated fully within the Geely Holding Group ecosystem, maintaining close operational ties to Volvo Cars for engineering and platform integration without changes to the equity distribution.[38] The brand benefited from shared resources across Geely's multi-brand portfolio, which includes Volvo, Polestar, and Zeekr, enabling collaborative manufacturing and supply chain efficiencies.[4] In November 2024, Volvo Cars divested its 30% stake in Lynk & Co to Zeekr Intelligent Technology Holding Limited, a Geely-owned electric vehicle brand, for RMB 5.4 billion (approximately SEK 8 billion), with Zeekr also acquiring an additional stake from Geely Auto Group to reach a total of 51% ownership, implying a total brand valuation of approximately 18 billion yuan during the restructuring.[39] The transaction was completed in February 2025, resulting in Zeekr holding 51% equity and Geely Auto Group maintaining 49% through its subsidiary Ningbo Geely Auto, which facilitates integrated electric vehicle production and research & development efforts.[40]Headquarters and Manufacturing
Lynk & Co is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, where it manages global brand strategy, design, and international operations since its founding in 2016, while maintaining significant research and development facilities in China, including in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.[3][41] The company's primary manufacturing occurs at Geely-owned facilities across China, with key sites including the Luqiao plant in Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, which served as the initial production base starting in 2017 and supports ongoing assembly operations.[42] Additional major plants are located in Zhangjiakou, Hebei Province, with an annual capacity of 120,000 vehicles, and in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, where mass production began in 2020 across stamping, welding, painting, and assembly workshops to handle increased volume for various models.[1] The Yuyao plant in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, has also become significant, marking milestones such as the production of the one millionth Lynk & Co vehicle in 2023.[1] Internationally, Lynk & Co does not currently operate dedicated assembly facilities outside China, with all vehicles produced domestically and exported to markets including Europe; however, parent company Geely is scouting potential sites for a European plant to localize production and mitigate tariffs.[43] Under the 2025 integration with Zeekr, expansions at the Taizhou facility are planned to enhance electric vehicle production capabilities, aligning with the brand's shift toward electrification.[42][44] Lynk & Co's manufacturing sites emphasize sustainability, incorporating advanced green practices such as renewable energy usage and reduced emissions, with commitments to achieve climate-neutral manufacturing by 2030 and a 50% reduction in vehicle life-cycle CO₂e emissions by the same year as part of a broader strategy targeting net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by 2044.[45]Branding and Marketing
Name and Brand Identity
Lynk & Co, unveiled in October 2016 as a joint venture between Geely Auto Group and Volvo Cars, derives its name from the concept of connectivity. The term "Lynk" is a stylized version of "link," symbolizing the interconnection of vehicles, people, and lifestyles in an increasingly digital world, where cars remain constantly connected to each other, infrastructure, and users.[46] The "& Co" suffix evokes a sense of collaboration and community, standing for "and company" to represent an inclusive, team-oriented approach to mobility that fosters shared experiences among customers.[47] Positioned as a premium brand for urban mobility, Lynk & Co targets millennials and younger generations who prioritize flexibility, technology, and sustainability over traditional car ownership. Drawing on its Volvo heritage, the brand incorporates Scandinavian design principles, characterized by clean lines, functionality, and safety-focused engineering, while adapting them to a modern, tech-savvy aesthetic suitable for city dwellers.[48] This positioning emphasizes individuality, openness, and connectivity as core values, appealing to users who seek seamless integration of vehicles into their dynamic lifestyles.[1] The brand's visual identity features a minimalist logo with bold geometric lines and unfinished contours, evoking progress, openness, and forward momentum, often accented in blue to convey a tech-forward, innovative image.[49] Unlike Geely's more affordable, mass-market vehicles or Volvo's established luxury sedans and SUVs, Lynk & Co differentiates itself as the group's "connected" brand, pioneering subscription-based access and sharing economy models to redefine urban transportation.[50]Marketing Strategies and Subscription Model
Lynk & Co's marketing strategies emphasize a lifestyle-oriented approach, targeting young urban professionals through digital channels, experiential events, and innovative retail formats like its Club Lynk & Co network. These clubs, launched as early as 2017 in China and expanding to Europe in 2020, function as multifunctional community hubs rather than traditional showrooms, fostering social interactions, events, and brand engagement to build a sense of belonging among tech-savvy consumers.[16][51][52] Social media campaigns leverage platforms like Instagram to showcase user-generated content and the brand's emphasis on connectivity, while pop-up events and collaborations with local artists reinforce the premium, open lifestyle narrative.[53][54] A cornerstone of Lynk & Co's promotional efforts is its subscription model, introduced in Europe in 2019 as a "mobility membership" alternative to outright ownership. This service allows users to access vehicles like the 01 compact SUV for approximately €500 per month, inclusive of comprehensive insurance, maintenance, road tax, and an initial mileage allowance of 1,250 km per month, with options for additional kilometers via prepaid packages.[55][56][57] The model integrates app-based car sharing, enabling subscribers to offset costs by renting out their vehicle when not in use, aligning with the brand's connectivity ethos.[58] Key campaigns have highlighted partnerships with influencers and brands to amplify digital reach, such as collaborations with design firms like Masquespacio for club interiors and automotive tuners like HEICO SPORTIV for customized models in 2025. Digital-first advertising focuses on the app's sharing capabilities and seamless user experience, with initiatives like the 2025 "Wonder. Full." campaign promoting upgraded features through community-driven storytelling and out-of-home displays across Europe.[59][60][61] Post-2023, Lynk & Co adapted its strategies to prioritize plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) promotions in international markets, responding to regulatory shifts like EU tariffs on full EVs by emphasizing models with up to 200 km electric range. This includes targeted campaigns in expanding regions like Central Europe and the Middle East.[62][63] In February 2025, Lynk & Co partnered with Volvo Cars for distribution in Europe, gaining access to select Volvo dealer networks in markets including Germany to enhance retail and service reach.[64] The subscription model has differentiated Lynk & Co from conventional automakers by driving community growth, with membership numbers surging 200% to over 170,000 users across seven European markets by the end of 2022, contributing significantly to brand loyalty and non-traditional sales pathways.[65][66]Products
Current Models
Lynk & Co's current models as of 2025 encompass a diverse lineup of SUVs, sedans, and crossovers, emphasizing hybrid and electric powertrains built on advanced platforms like the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) and Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). These vehicles integrate Volvo-derived safety technologies, such as the City Safety system for automatic emergency braking, and advanced connectivity features including over-the-air (OTA) updates and seamless app integration for remote monitoring and vehicle sharing.[67] The Lynk & Co 01 is a mid-size SUV available in a facelifted 2025 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant, featuring a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with a 143 HP permanent magnet synchronous electric motor, delivering a combined output of 276 HP and 535 Nm of torque. This setup enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds, with an electric-only range of up to 75 km (WLTP) from its 18.7 kWh battery, and it rides on the CMA platform shared with Volvo models for enhanced handling and modularity.[68][69][70] The Lynk & Co 02 is a compact crossover offered in a 2025 battery electric vehicle (BEV) configuration with a single rear-mounted electric motor producing 272 HP and 343 Nm of torque, supported by a 69 kWh battery pack that provides up to 445 km of range (WLTP). It achieves 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds and features a low drag coefficient of 0.259 Cd, with launches in markets including Europe and the Philippines.[71][72][73] The Lynk & Co 03+ is a performance-oriented sedan with the 2025 Champion Edition introducing enhanced aerodynamics via a carbon fiber rear spoiler and options for a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivering up to 254 HP and 350 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for agile handling. This edition emphasizes sporty styling while retaining advanced driver-assistance systems derived from Volvo engineering. The base 03 sedan is also available with ICE and PHEV options.[74][75] The Lynk & Co 05 is a coupe-style compact SUV available in hybrid variants since 2020, featuring a 2.0T engine with PHEV options and all-wheel-drive capability. The Lynk & Co 06 is a compact SUV in its 2025 iteration, characterized by bold exterior design elements and smart interior features like a 15.4-inch infotainment display and 19 ADAS functions, powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 181 HP and 290 Nm of torque via a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, or PHEV variants. It is positioned for competitive pricing in regions such as the Gulf and Philippines, starting around $20,000 equivalent, appealing to urban buyers seeking premium connectivity and safety.[76][77][78] The Lynk & Co 07 is a mid-size sedan available in 2025 EM-P PHEV variants with LiDAR, offering updated styling and advanced driver assistance.[79] The Lynk & Co 08 is a mid-size PHEV SUV launched in Europe in 2025, providing up to 200 km electric range (WLTP) and over 1,000 km combined range, with DC fast charging in 33 minutes (10-80%). It achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP rating.[80][81] The Lynk & Co 09 is a full-size PHEV SUV with up to 160 km electric range (CLTC). Among newer additions, the Lynk & Co 900 is a full-size PHEV SUV launched in April 2025 as a 6-seater with a 1.5-liter turbo engine and dual motors producing up to 872 HP combined (top trim), offering a total range of up to 1,443 km (CLTC) from its 52.38 kWh battery and priced under $45,500 for entry variants.[82][83][84] The Z10 all-electric executive sedan, launched in September 2024, offers up to 806 km range (CLTC) on the SEA platform. The Z20 compact BEV SUV, launched in December 2024, starts at approximately $15,200. The 10 EM-P PHEV sedan, launched in September 2025, expands the lineup with hybrid options.[85][86][87]Discontinued Models
The Lynk & Co 02 Hatchback was introduced in June 2021 as a compact hot hatch variant of the 02 lineup, equipped with 1.5-liter turbocharged (1.5T) and 2.0-liter turbocharged (2.0T) engine options producing up to 254 horsepower, and designed for agile urban driving with its front-wheel-drive layout and sporty styling.[88] Production of this model ended globally by 2023, primarily due to insufficient sales volumes that failed to meet market expectations in key regions.[88] Certain non-hybrid variants of the Lynk & Co 05, a coupe-style compact SUV launched in 2020 featuring a 2.0T engine delivering 254 horsepower and all-wheel-drive capability, were phased out in 2024 as Lynk & Co accelerated its transition to electrified powertrains.[88] This shift aligned with broader industry trends toward hybrids and pure EVs, reducing emphasis on traditional internal combustion engine models like the initial fuel-only 05 configurations.[29] These discontinuations stemmed from Lynk & Co's strategic pivot to electrification after a 2024 ownership restructuring, where low demand for hatchback and non-hybrid segments prompted resource reallocation to emerging EV platforms like the 900 series.[29] Overall, the phased-out models played a foundational role in establishing the brand's premium positioning in the compact crossover space during its early years, paving the way for successors in the current electrified lineup.Global Presence and Sales
Domestic Market in China
Lynk & Co's domestic market in China serves as its primary sales base, accounting for over 80% of the brand's total global volume. In 2023, the company achieved annual sales of 220,250 units in China, contributing to a 22% year-on-year increase for the brand overall.[89] This performance underscores China's role as the core market, where Lynk & Co has established a strong presence through its premium positioning within the Geely ecosystem.[90] The brand has experienced rapid growth in China, reaching approximately 1.08 million cumulative units by the end of 2023.[91] Post-2024, Lynk & Co shifted strategy to emphasize plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), aligning with China's accelerating new energy vehicle (NEV) transition. This includes adaptations to its subscription model for urban car-sharing in major cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou, promoting flexible ownership to appeal to younger, tech-savvy urbanites. In 2025, the focus intensified on affordable EVs such as the 06 and 900 models, priced competitively to challenge leaders like BYD and Tesla in the mid-to-premium segment.[92][93] The Lynk & Co 900 achieved cumulative deliveries exceeding 40,000 units by October 2025.[94] As of September 2025, Lynk & Co had delivered 32,902 vehicles in China, contributing to first-half 2025 sales of 154,137 units, a 22% year-on-year increase.[95][96] Cumulative global deliveries surpassed 1.5 million units by July 2025, predominantly in China.[97] Lynk & Co benefited significantly from government NEV subsidies in China until their phase-out at the end of 2022, which supported early adoption and sales momentum. Following this, the brand has relied on ongoing tax exemptions for NEVs, extended through 2027, and premium branding in Tier 1 cities to maintain competitiveness. However, intense market competition has led to challenges, including slight sales declines for models like the 01 post-2024, with a reported 55% year-on-year drop from April to August 2024 due to shifting preferences toward NEVs and rivals' aggressive pricing.[98][99][100]International Markets and Sales Performance
Lynk & Co's international expansion has primarily focused on Europe, where the brand entered in 2017 and has since established production at Volvo's Ghent plant in Belgium to support local manufacturing and reduce import tariffs. In 2022, European sales reached 26,396 units, marking a 233% year-over-year increase from 7,917 units in 2021, driven by the rollout of plug-in hybrid models like the 01. However, sales faced challenges in subsequent years, with a reported 33% decline for the 01 and 02 models through April 2025, totaling 1,653 units during that period amid broader market pressures on Chinese imports.[20] The brand expanded from seven markets in 2024 to 25 by mid-2025, including new entries into the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland, with plans for 150 partner-operated sales locations by year-end to bolster distribution.[63][101] Despite these efforts, select models like the 01 experienced declines, while the introduction of the 08 plug-in hybrid SUV—aiming for 6,000 units in 2025—signals a push toward recovery through enhanced electric range offerings.[102][103] In the Middle East, Lynk & Co launched in May 2023, initially targeting Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar with hybrid models adapted for regional preferences. The brand expanded further in 2024, opening a third outlet in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and appointing a distributor in the UAE. Sales figures for the region remain modest, contributing to the brand's overall overseas volume of 81,000 units from 2021 to 2024, with no specific breakdowns available but indicative of steady initial adoption in premium segments. New market entries in 2025 include Russia, where sales commenced in Q2 via distributor Orbis Auto, emphasizing models like the 03 and 09 to capitalize on demand for affordable premium vehicles.[35] Planned entry into Mexico was announced in May 2025 with three hybrid SUV models in partnership with Zeekr, focusing on urban mobility solutions and targeting initial sales of around 5,000 units through local dealerships, though the launch timeline remains pending.[104] Broader plans for late 2025 include potential entries into Malaysia and Australia/New Zealand with an electric vehicle focus, though timelines have shifted—Malaysia entry was deferred beyond 2025, and Australian launch delayed to at least 2028 amid strategic reprioritization toward brands like Zeekr. U.S. entry, originally planned post-2024 via a rental and subscription model with an all-electric SUV, remains delayed due to regulatory and homologation hurdles.[105] Overall, Lynk & Co achieved global sales of 285,441 units in 2024, a 30% year-over-year increase, with international markets accounting for a growing but still minority share compared to China. Projections for 2025 target 390,000 units worldwide following ownership restructuring under Zeekr, with the subscription model contributing to international volume through flexible ownership options.[92][106] As of September 2025, cumulative European registrations are estimated at over 90,000 units, reflecting ongoing expansion.| Year | European Sales (Units) | Year-over-Year Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 7,917 | - |
| 2022 | 26,396 | 233 |
| 2023 | ~20,000 (est.) | -24 (approx.) |
| 2024 | ~27,000 | 35 (approx.) |
| 2025 | ~20,000 (Jan-Sept est.) | N/A (partial) |
