The Lynk & Co 08 is a record-breaker among plug-in hybrids: 200 km of electric range
We've been warning for a long time: moving from traditional combustion vehicles to pure electric vehicles requires a longer transition period than politicians have decided, without taking into account such basic factors as infrastructure, the socioeconomic situation of buyers, and the necessary adaptation of everyone to such a complex and profound change, to mention only the most trivial details.
In this context, most brands, which had invested a significant portion of their resources in the 100% electric car market, are slowing down their efforts and seeking alternatives to survive in the face of the continued low demand for this type of vehicle in most markets.
Lynk & Co, born under the umbrella of Geely and Volvo, is one of those that has completely changed its initial plans, and in this case not only in its product strategy but also in the business model designed for its arrival on the European market in 2021. At that time, they wanted to abandon the traditional sales format and replace it with commitment-free subscriptions, as well as abandon dealerships and offer a mobile application through which all contacts and processes were carried out digitally.
Sometimes pioneers are too far ahead of their time, and the results aren't what they were looking for, as seems to have happened with Lynk & Co., which is now expanding a new distribution network, selling cars in a conventional way, and developing advanced plug-in vehicles like the 08 instead of embarking on a mad dash for electric power.
The Lynk & Co 08, the brand's third model to arrive in Europe, is a large SUV that redefines what's expected of a plug-in hybrid, achieving this thanks, precisely, to its Chinese component. With an electric range of 200 kilometers (WLTP) and the option of fast DC charging, it becomes the first car to offer this combination, until now reserved for the 100% electric world.
Between combustion and electricity"This car's extended electric range is a revolutionary milestone that closes the gap between us and fully electric mobility," summarized Nicolas López Appelgren, the company's CEO.
At 4.82 meters long, the 08 enters the competitive D-segment of SUVs, with a distinctive design, comprehensive equipment, and propulsion technology that positions it as a true bridge between combustion-engine vehicles and pure electric vehicles. Its plug-in hybrid system is composed of a 137 hp 1.5 turbo gasoline engine, a 208 hp electric motor, and another that regenerates energy. Together, it delivers 345 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. It also features an efficient management system that allows for truly reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
But the statistic that truly establishes it as a pioneer is its electric range. It can drive up to 200 kilometers without using a drop of fuel, an unprecedented figure for a plug-in hybrid. This is possible thanks to a 39.6 kWh battery, which can be recharged in just 33 minutes (from 10% to 80%) when connected to an 85 kW DC fast charger , another of the Lynk & Co 08's groundbreaking innovations. In alternating current (AC), the charging power is 11 kW, allowing a full charge in about 4.5 hours.
The total range, combining gasoline and electricity, exceeds 1,100 kilometers , making it an ideal option for both daily commutes and long trips, where the anxiety generated by an electric car disappears.
With this solution, 90% of the mileage a typical user can travel is achieved with zero CO2 emissions, so the improvement from an environmental perspective is enormous and arguably even more effective than that of an electric vehicle in most cases. How is this possible? Because the emissions generated, among other things, to obtain the lithium needed for large batteries will require several years of the car's useful life to compensate for the low pollution generated by a car that only travels 10% of its mileage using gasoline.
The O8 offers an advanced technological approach. It features a large 15.4-inch central screen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, full connectivity (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi, 5G), and remote updates. It also includes features such as remote climate control via mobile phone , V2L technology for using the battery as an external power source, and voice control via the brand's app.
On a practical level, it offers a 540-liter trunk, with the option of increasing the capacity to 1,254 liters if the rear seats are folded down. The rear seats are generously spacious, and the perceived quality of the cabin is good, with well-finished materials that feel pleasant.
The Lynk & Co 08 arrives in Spain in June 2025 with two trim levels: Core and More. Both are very well-equipped as standard, although the latter adds features such as 21-inch wheels, a sound system developed specifically for this model by Harman/Kardon with 23 speakers, heated, ventilated, and massage seats, a panoramic roof, and three-zone climate control. In terms of safety, it features a full arsenal of driving assistants, including adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, lane keeping, 360° vision, and driver facial recognition.
All these assistants, many of which have been required by law since June of last year, are overly invasive and make driving truly uncomfortable, although this is something that, unfortunately, occurs in most modern cars. But the worst part is the number of screens and operations you have to perform to disable them as you see fit. Lynk & Co told us they are working to simplify the process with simple buttons or steps.
Once you've selected your preferred driving configuration from the menu, the new model is very pleasant to drive, with barely perceptible transitions between the electric and combustion engines and commendable smoothness. Another unusual feature is the three-speed gearbox, ideal for this combination of powertrains. It saves weight compared to conventional multi-speed gearboxes and is more efficient than the single-speed gearboxes found on almost all electric vehicles.
In this pleasant environment , the wind noise is slightly jarring, louder than normal, despite the car's well-insulated cabin.
In Spain, prices for the 08 start at €52,995 (Core) and €56,995 (More). It will be available for direct purchase, leasing, or subscription through the brand's website, at Lynk & Co Clubs, or at dealerships. There are currently 40 in operation in Europe, and the number is expected to reach 150 by the end of 2025. In Spain, we already have some in major cities, which will increase to 20/25 by the end of the year.
The Swedish-born, Chinese-owned company's ambition is to expand its presence into new European markets.
elmundo
