Link & Co 08, the plug-in suv with 200 km electric range arrives

Link & Co is preparing to market its first super hybrid plu-in model in Europe. Credited with an electric range of up to 200 km, the SUV is based on a plug-in hybrid petrol powertrain combined with a battery that can be recharged from 10 to 80 per cent in 33 minutes for a total range of 1,100 km including 200 km in electric mode. After the recently updated 01 and the electric-only 02, Geely's brand is raising the challenge with the 08 and Super Hybrid.

To guarantee the 200 km electric range of the 08, the Super Hybrid relies on a lithium nickel-manganese-cobalt battery with a capacity of 39.6 kWh, a record for a plug-in car. The main engine of the Chinese SUV is a 137 hp 1.5 cc turbocharged four-cylinder coupled to a three-speed transmission for a total output of 345 hp. The new model will also be available in Europe from the summer at a starting price of 52,995 euros.

At 4.82 metres long, 1.91 metres wide, 1.68 metres high and with a wheelbase of 2.84, the Lynk & Co 08 is the largest model in the range of cars offered by the Chinese carmaker owned by the Geely group. Aesthetically one recognises the close kinship with the 02, with which it also shares the light signature, with three very subtle LED elements, one of which continues up to the wing. On the side, one notices the retractable door handles that are integrated into the bodywork and the new rear view mirrors.

The rear area offers LED lights that practically run through the tailgate to the side with two fins in the centre, highlighting the Lynk & Co. lettering. The interior is minimalist, with no buttons other than those on the steering wheel: all the main functions are activated from the 14.5-inch screen in the centre, while driving information is displayed on the 10.2-inch instrument panel that acts as a dashboard, plus a large head-up display as standard.

In addition to the Core trim, the entry level to the range, there is also a higher More trim level: both are without the need to add optional extras as they are completely pre-configured levels. Market availability of the new Lynk & Co is, as mentioned, scheduled for the summer, specifically in July. The launch will be coupled with a plan that will also lead to the opening of numerous sales outlets in Europe. The target, estimated by Link & Co, is to register around 4,000 units of the 08 by the end of the year.