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Lynk & Co 02: A Revolutionary Shared EV for Modern Driving

Lynk & Co 02 electric vehicle showcasing its innovative design and features

Lynk & Co Launches the Revolutionary O2 Fully-Electric Vehicle

Lynk & Co has officially introduced the O2, its first fully-electric vehicle, expertly designed for a modern approach to car sharing. This innovative EV is more than just a mode of transport; it embodies a new lifestyle where sharing a vehicle with family and friends—or anyone willing to pay—becomes the norm. With a unique perspective on car ownership, Lynk & Co has set out to change the traditional paradigms of owning a vehicle.

Unlocking Car Sharing: The Lender Model

Upon purchasing, leasing, or subscribing to the O2, individuals can become a "lender" according to Lynk & Co terminology, allowing them to set terms for how and when their vehicle can be shared. This groundbreaking model enhances utility while addressing the issue of idle vehicles. In Amsterdam, for example, residents can borrow Lynk & Co's 01 plug-in hybrids for an hourly rate ranging from €7 to €12, promoting a culture of sharing and community resource utilization.

The lending structure provides two key benefits:

  • Financial Relief: Owners can offset their monthly payments by making their vehicles available during times they are not in use, such as evenings or weekends.
  • Urban Efficiency: Sharing reduces the number of cars on the road, freeing up valuable space in crowded cities.

Approximately 30% of Lynk & Co 01 owners already engage in sharing their vehicles, demonstrating the public’s positive reception of this model. With the O2, sharing has been made even more convenient, featuring a practical "sharing strap" beside the steering column to launch the sharing app on the vehicle’s expansive 15.4-inch central display.'

Pricing and Subscription Details

Online sales for the O2 commenced today in Europe, with a starting price of €35,495 (about $39,000). Interested customers will have the option to subscribe, with more details on the subscription plans set to be released soon. Currently, subscriptions for the Lynk & Co 01 cost €600 monthly with a €200 sign-up fee, covering maintenance, insurance, and road tax—a plan that can be canceled at any time. When initially launched, the 01 was available at a lower price of €500 monthly without a sign-up fee.

The O2's Electric Performance and Features

Built on Geely's Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA), the O2 features an efficient 66 kWh NMC battery, providing a maximum WLTP range of 445 km (277 miles). This range fits well with European charging infrastructure, making it practical for daily commutes and longer trips. The vehicle can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes using a 150 kW DC charger, or reach a full charge in 7.5 hours from a standard home AC outlet.

Fun Features Tailored for Users

The O2 is designed to be playful and interactive, responding to user feedback from previous models:

  • Friendly Alerts: It includes a "Hey Honk" feature that replaces the conventional horn with a set of engaging alerts for pedestrians and road users.
  • Selfie Camera: Positioned at the rear-view mirror with a USB connection for use as a dashcam, enhancing the vehicle's multimedia capabilities.
  • Power Sharing: With vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, users can charge e-bikes or other devices using the O2’s battery.

State-of-the-Art Technology and Safety Features

The O2 is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including:

  • Automatic safety features
  • Over-the-air software updates
  • 5G connectivity and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Dual-wireless charging capabilities
  • Remote control for internal temperature
  • Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (available via OTA update after customer deliveries)

For a premium experience, customers can opt for the More variant, priced at €39,495, including additional features.

Expansion Plans and Market Presence

Lynk & Co operates across seven European countries: Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and Belgium. The company intends to expand into a total of 22 European markets by year-end, indicating strong growth potential.

First customer deliveries of the O2 are anticipated by December, marking a significant milestone for the brand and the future of electric vehicle sharing.

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