The Auto China 2024 event, sometimes known as the Beijing Auto Show, is easily one of the biggest car shows in the world. Japanese, Korean, European, and of course, Chinese brands vie for attention and market share in China’s massive car market.
It’s no easy feat to literally stand out and create a booth that offers both visual impact and a memorable visiting experience. But this is what Lynk & Co, a joint venture between Geely Auto Group and Volvo Car Group, has done.
Behind a large and visible logo is a multi-story setup, surrounding the visitor with Lynk & Co models and mega-city vibes. Activities include driving simulators, VR setups, and that car show staple, fresh coffee.
Of course, for us visitors, the cars are the stars of the show. Lynk & Co labels their cars numerically, which simplifies naming and avoids those odd English translations.
Here are the models on the show floor. Pardon the photos. We tried our best to get clean shots of the cars, but this was a very busy motor show.
01
This was Lynk & Co’s very first model, launched in 2017 and face-lifted since then. It shares a platform with the Volvo XC40 and is powered by a 2.0-liter engine generating 292hp and 325Nm of torque.
03
The Lynk & Co 03 is the brand’s compact sedan. A variety of turbocharged engines can be found under the hood, including a snorting 2.0-liter mill with 341hp and 350Nm of torque. In true European style, a sportier version called the 03+ exists.
06
The Lynk & Co 06 is a subcompact crossover that shares a platform with the Geely Coolray. Naturally, there are 1.5-liter turbocharged engines in front. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment system will keep passengers entertained and informed.
07
The main event was the Lynk & Co 07 compact sedan. The model on the floor is a 07 EM-P, the latter letters denoting that this 07 is a PHEV. E-MP is Lynk & Co’s three-motor four-wheel drive powertrain with an ultra-flat battery layout.
A 1.5-liter hybrid powerplant resides under the hood, churning an impressive 615Nm and 375hp. Acceleration to 100kph comes in 6.5 sec, and it can go for 126km purely on battery power. Lynk & Co is positioning the 07 against long-wheelbase China variants of the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4; Lynk & Co claims its 07 trumps the competitors when it comes to precious wheelbase.
09
The Lynk & Co 09 is the big boy in the lineup. A midsize crossover based on the Volvo XC90, it can seat seven with comfort and room to spare. ADAS systems will keep occupants safe, while Apple CarPlay will provide the entertainment.
