As announced by Lynk & Co itself when we “visited” them in Gothenburg, in 2024 we will see their first electric model and the second for the European market: the new Lynk & Co 02, whose first spy photos have been spotted in China.
The name, however, is not final, but it’s the most prestigious one. What is certain is that it will be built on the compact SEA2 platform, like the Volvo EX30, the Zeekr X, and the Smart #1. It’s worth noting that at the moment Lynk & Co only sells the SUV 01 in Europe, and only plug-in hybrids through its unique subscription formula, while in China it utilizes a traditional model with a wide range of vehicles.
The “new” Lynk & Co
The aforementioned European sales model might change, following the change of CEO: in December, Geely announced the end of Alain Visser’s tenure as CEO of the brand he also helped found, replaced by Nicolas Lopez Appelgren, previously Head of Retail Operations at Volvo, who might slightly change the modus operandi, focusing on more models. Starting from the new electric model, which was already planned during Visser’s era.
The spy images of the vehicle spotted in China offer an interesting preview of the external and internal features of this compact SUV. It resembles the Zeekr X to some extent, with which Lynk & Co shares the design center, and as noted by the frameless rearview mirrors, retractable door handles, and five-spoke alloy wheels. However, compared to the Zeekr X, it has the shape of a coupe, as suggested by the heavily inclined rear window.
The spy images also reveal an interesting detail: a door opening button positioned on the central pillar, suggesting that a version without door handles might be available in the future, coupled with an app and designed for internal car sharing that Lynk & Co owners can take advantage of.
Moving to the interior, the Lynk & Co 02 BEV offers a modern and technological experience. The D-shaped four-spoke steering wheel and the gear selector mounted on the steering column give a sense of sportiness. The center console houses an LCD display for the dashboard and a large floating screen for the new infotainment system. Additionally, there are two wireless charging pads, cup holders, and USB ports on the central tunnel, while the doors are equipped with buttons instead of traditional handles.
On the motorization front, the Lynk & Co 02 BEV is equipped with the SEA2 platform, so it should adopt the powertrains of its cousins. The exact details of the motor and battery specifications have not yet been revealed, but it is expected to include a 200 kW electric motor on the rear axle powered by a 66 kWh NMC lithium-ion battery.