When it comes to smartphones, we've already got used to the fact that new brands from China keep pushing into the market. The Chinese are also stepping on the gas in the automotive sector. The latest example is the Lynk & Co brand, with which the Geely Group plans to gain a foothold in Europe soon. To do this, you bet on Compact SUV called 01.
Geely is a fixture in Asia that wants to operate worldwide. An important step in this direction was the takeover of Volvo in 2010. Geely was able to use the expertise of the Volvo network to develop the first Lynk & Co model. The 01 is based on the new CMA architecture developed for global use in Sweden, which will also serve as a substructure for the upcoming compact models from Volvo, such as the XC2018 planned for 40.
Like the Volvo models, the first Lynk & Co model will also be positioned in the premium segment. The Chinese are announcing a correspondingly noble interior for the newcomer, which looks a little bit reminiscent of the Porsche Macan. The pictures of the interior show a modern, tidy and comfortably furnished workplace. Large displays can be found in the instrument cluster and in the center console, and Lynk & Co also promises the world's best networked car. In terms of safety, the 01 should also be at the top level. Whether autonomous emergency braking, distance cruise control, blind spot warning or lane departure warning - the technology required for a modern safety concept is on board. On the drive side, the statements are still a bit vague. The Chinese promise highly efficient and electrified internal combustion engines in combination with dual clutch transmissions.
Lynk & Co plans to launch the 01, which is produced in China, in its home market in 2017. Markets in Europe and America are to follow soon. However, no precise schedule is given. The market entry can follow quickly, however, because Lynk & Co does not want to set up a dealer network, but rather sell the vehicles over the Internet. The associated low cost structure for sales should have a positive effect on the purchase price, which should be particularly competitive. And there will only be one price, because the customer should not torment himself through long price lists, but be satisfied with standard equipment, which, in the opinion of Lynk & Co, offers everything one needs.
(Mario Hommen / SP-X)