Just when it seems like the Chinese can't surprise anyone in the automotive world anymore, the Lynk & Co 02 arrives - an electric car that combines functionality, spaciousness and surprising performance. Enter a new chapter in the Chinese automotive story, where prices are even more shocking than the power under the hood.
Lynk & Co 02 It is based on the same architecture as the Smart #1, Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X – all of which are the result of collaboration under the Geely umbrella. The car is available with a single powertrain: rear-wheel drive with 272 hp (200 kW) and a battery with a capacity of 66 kWh (69 kWh gross). Acceleration? From 0 to 100 km/h in about 6.2 seconds, which is solid for everyday driving. Or, let's face it – really good.
Speaking of range, the Lynk & Co 02 offers up to 445 km (WLTP), which is suitable for longer trips. More importantly, the fast charger allows for power up to 150 kW, which means charging the battery from 10 to 80 % in about 30 minutes. Also 11 kW three-phase charger is standard, adding convenience to everyday charging. In the model Lynk & Co 02 is there an option to upgrade the charger to 22 kW AC charging, which is included in the better equipped version of the vehicle named – more. This functionality allows for much faster battery charging at public AC charging stations, where the infrastructure supports it, as it cuts the charging time by half compared to the standard 11 kW AC charging.
The first thing you notice about the Lynk & Co 02 is its size. Compared to a Volvo EX30 or Zeekr X, it's clearly bigger - with more space for both passengers and luggage. The rear bench is set further back, allowing for better comfort despite the coupe-like roofline. And the boot, with 410 litres of capacity (and an additional 15 litres up front), beats most of the competition in this segment.
The interior is minimalist, but a bit sterile. A large central infotainment screen and a smaller digital display for the driver provide all the necessary information, but without unnecessary visual elements. The materials are soft to the touch, but do not reach the premium quality of a Volvo or Tesla. Nevertheless, Lynk & Co aims for practicality with innovative solutions, such as a removable glove box, which in the future will have a cooling function.
A ride where practicality trumps emotion
Driving with Lynk & Co 02 is calm and predictable. The car is designed for comfort, with a well-balanced chassis and quick response. Compared to the Volvo EX30, the ride is less nervous and more relaxed, as the chassis absorbs bumps in the road better. The ESP system is responsive and reliable, which is important for an electric car with power on the rear axle.
While Sport mode provides slightly improved responsiveness, it is car It's basically powerful enough for most drivers. This isn't a car you'd buy for adrenaline-fueled driving, but it offers enough power to get around safely and comfortably, even on the highway.
A price that wins the heart
One of the Lynk & Co 02's main selling points is its price. With a base price of around €36,000, it offers more space and a more powerful specification than most of its European rivals. Standard equipment includes a heat pump, a 22 kW three-phase charger (optional), a Harman Kardon audio system and 20-inch wheels. Compared to the Volvo EX30, which is significantly more expensive, or the Zeekr X, which targets a more premium segment, the Lynk & Co 02 delivers the most bang for your buck. (Price according to various sources.)
The Lynk & Co 02 is an electric car that wins over with its practicality, spaciousness and surprisingly affordable price. While it doesn't stand out for its emotional appeal or premium quality, it offers a solid foundation for everyday use and at the same time breaks down the prejudices about Chinese cars. Is it a perfect car? Maybe not, but considering the price-quality ratio, it's hard to find a better choice in this segment.
Is the Lynk & Co 02 the start of a new wave of Chinese cars in Europe? The answer seems to be yes. The only question remains: are you ready to give something new a chance?
