Nordiskbil took a trip to Sweden to test drive two new models from the Geely-owned brand Lynk & Co. Although the brand is not yet available in Denmark, this could soon change.
After a short flight from Copenhagen to Arlanda, Stockholm’s largest airport, we were transported to Ellery Beach House, where two cars were waiting: Lynk & Co’s first electric car for Europe (we’ve been at the preview in Milan), the 02, and an updated version of the Volvo XC40-based 01.
Lynk & Co 02 – An Electric Vehicle with Potential
Let’s start with the hottest news. In fact, highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the Lynk & Co 02, a fully electric crossover that shares its platform and technology with vehicles like the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X (read our test drive here). The design is sharp and modern, showcasing the Scandinavian aesthetic we’ve come to expect from Geely’s Swedish brands.
The driving experience was impressive. After just two hours behind the wheel, it became clear that the 02 offers the same sporty DNA as the Zeekr X. However, it lacks the Android-based infotainment system from Polestar and Volvo, instead opting for Lynk & Co’s proprietary system, which unfortunately feels less intuitive.
The cabin design is minimalist, with very few physical buttons. Those that do exist are located in the door panels and at the bottom of the screen, making them easy to access. Interior space is surprisingly generous—especially for rear-seat passengers, who enjoy far better comfort than in both the EX30 and Zeekr. The 415-liter boot space, however, might be a drawback for some.
Specifications:
- Range: 445 km (WLTP)
- Battery: 66 kWh lithium-ion
- Power: 272 hp
- 0-100 km/h: 5.5 seconds
- Price in Sweden: From 429,995 SEK (~280,000 DKK)
One unique feature is the car’s “sharing functionality,” allowing users to share the car via an app, similar to Airbnb for cars. This feature, however, was not yet operational in the test model.
Lynk & Co 01: updated and improved
The second car on the agenda was the Lynk & Co 01, a plug-in hybrid SUV that will receive a facelift and a new engine next year.
Built on an older Volvo XC40 platform (the CMA, also shared with the Polestar 2) the 01 has been updated with modern design and technology. The new 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, paired with an electric motor, delivers 280 hp and 535 Nm. The new 8-speed automatic gearbox is a significant improvement over the previous 7-speed version.
On the road, the 01 feels solid and comfortable. While it’s not a performance car, it provides a stable and enjoyable driving experience, perfect for long journeys. The car can run up to 75 km on electric power alone, but unfortunately, the test model was almost out of battery, so most of the test drive relied on the petrol engine.
Inside, the 01 stands out from the Volvo XC40 with its unique cabin design and a new, larger 15” touchscreen. The materials feel noticeably more premium, which is impressive given its price point.
Specifications:
- Power: 280 hp
- Torque: 535 Nm
- Electric Range: 75 km
- Price in Sweden: From 475,000 SEK (~300,000 DKK)
Is it worth waiting for ?
The Lynk & Co 02 and 01 clearly showcase the brand’s potential. The 02 impresses as a well-performing electric vehicle, competing strongly with established models like the Polestar 2 and Volvo EX30. The 01, on the other hand, stands out as a luxurious and economical family car at an attractive price, especially in Sweden.
It will be exciting to see if Lynk & Co makes its way to Denmark (and maybe Norway, where in the meanwhile the “cousin” Zeekr arrived) soon. If the pricing can remain competitive, the brand has a good chance of winning over Danish car buyers.
