The Lynk & Co 01 1.5 T3 Plug-in Hybrid, produced from July 2019 to December 2020, represents a unique entry into the compact SUV segment. Developed under the Geely Holding Group, Lynk & Co aimed to disrupt traditional automotive ownership with a focus on connectivity and a subscription-based service model. The 01, the brand’s first vehicle, combined a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a 9.4 kWh battery pack, offering both all-electric driving capability and the range of a traditional hybrid. This particular 256 horsepower variant was positioned as a mid-range offering within the 01 lineup, balancing performance with fuel efficiency and technology. It was primarily marketed in China and select European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 01 |
| Generation | 01 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T3 (256 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DCTH |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | December, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined NEDC) | 1.6 l/100 km (147 US mpg, 176.6 UK mpg, 62.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Gross battery capacity | 9.4 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | In the central tunnel |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 51 km (31.69 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 18.8 kWh/100 km (30.26 kWh/100 mi, 111 MPGe, 5.3 km/kWh, 3.3 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 82 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 256 Hp |
| Engine Power | 180 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1477 cm3 (90.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1735-1769 kg (3825.02 – 3899.98 lbs.) |
| Length | 4512 mm (177.64 in.) |
| Width | 1857 mm (73.11 in.) |
| Height | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2734 mm (107.64 in.) |
| Front track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Rear track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCTH |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17; 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Lynk & Co 01 1.5 T3 is a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder turbocharged engine, designated as part of Geely’s ‘JLB’ engine family. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a sophisticated turbocharging system to produce 180 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contribute to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. The electric motor, a synchronous unit, adds an additional 82 horsepower and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output reaches 256 horsepower. The powertrain is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), offering quick and smooth gear changes. The 9.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is strategically placed in the central tunnel, optimizing weight distribution and minimizing intrusion into the passenger compartment. The battery supports plug-in charging, allowing for an all-electric range of up to 51 kilometers (31.7 miles) under NEDC testing conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 01 1.5 T3 offers a refined driving experience, blending the responsiveness of the turbocharged engine with the smooth, quiet operation of the electric motor. In electric-only mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration, ideal for urban commuting. When the engine engages, the transition is seamless, and the combined power output delivers brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.9 seconds. The DCT transmission contributes to this performance, providing quick shifts and maintaining optimal engine speed. Compared to the standard gasoline-powered 01 variants, the plug-in hybrid offers significantly improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. While the added weight of the battery and electric motor slightly impacts handling compared to lighter models, the 01 1.5 T3 still provides a comfortable and composed ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T3 trim typically included a generous array of standard features. Interior appointments included comfortable cloth or leatherette upholstery, a modern dashboard layout with a large central touchscreen infotainment system, and automatic climate control. Standard safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and a suite of airbags. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Lynk & Co 01 was also notable for its over-the-air (OTA) software update capability, allowing for continuous improvement and the addition of new features.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 01 utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. The electric power steering system offers precise and responsive steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 01 1.5 T3 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, the 01 offered a competitive all-electric range and a relatively affordable price point. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some European competitors. The 1.5 T3 variant offered a compelling alternative to the standard gasoline-powered 01 models, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel economy and environmental responsibility.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 01 1.5 T3, while only produced for a relatively short period, established Lynk & Co as a viable player in the automotive market. The powertrain, combining a turbocharged three-cylinder engine with an electric motor and DCT transmission, proved to be reliable and efficient. On the used car market, these models continue to attract buyers seeking a stylish, fuel-efficient, and technologically advanced SUV. The 01’s innovative subscription-based ownership model, while not universally adopted, paved the way for new approaches to automotive retail. The 1.5 T3 variant remains a desirable option for those seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV with a good balance of performance, efficiency, and features.
