The Lynk & Co 01 (Generation I, facelifted version introduced in Europe in 2021) is a premium compact SUV resulting from the joint venture between Geely and Volvo. Based on the excellent CMA modular platform (shared with the Volvo XC40), it benefits from the same safety standards and mechanical foundation as its Swedish cousin. While the model began its career in China in 2017 with 100% internal combustion engines (gasoline), its arrival in Europe took the form of a facelifted model, offered almost exclusively as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and full hybrid (HEV) via an atypical economic model (monthly subscription or purchase). Mechanically very accomplished, the 01 nevertheless suffers from early teething problems related to its software architecture and connectivity.
The Lynk & Co 01 is a paradox: mechanically, it is a Volvo XC40, which gives it excellent engine reliability (whether in pure 2.0T gasoline or 1.5T hybrid) and top-tier safety. However, its positioning as a 'smartphone on wheels' did it a disservice in its early days. Software bugs, connectivity losses, and especially 12V battery failures linked to the TCAM module have frustrated many European users. If you are aiming for a 2.0T gasoline version (outside Europe), it is a very solid purchase. For European PHEV/HEV versions, favor a model whose TCAM module has been replaced and whose software updates are current. It is an excellent vehicle, but one that requires a certain tolerance for electronic quirks.