The Lynk & Co 01 1.5T Hybrid DCTH, produced from November 2019 to June 2020, represents a unique entry into the compact SUV segment. Developed as a joint venture between Geely, Volvo Cars, and Daimler AG, Lynk & Co aimed to disrupt traditional automotive ownership models with a focus on connectivity and a subscription-based service offering. The 01, the brand’s first model, was initially targeted primarily at the Chinese market, leveraging Volvo’s engineering expertise and Geely’s manufacturing capabilities. This particular variant, the 1.5T Hybrid, positioned itself as a technologically advanced and relatively efficient option within the 01 lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. It’s built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, shared with other Volvo and Geely models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 01 |
| Generation | 01 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5T (197 Hp) Hybrid DCTH |
| Start of production | November, 2019 |
| End of production | June, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.8 Nm/tonne |
| Electric motor power | 54 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 130 Nm (95.88 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 197 Hp |
| Engine Power | 143 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 96.8 Hp/l |
| Engine Torque | 215 Nm @ 2500-4000 rpm (158.58 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLH-3G15TB |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1736 kg (3827.22 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. FHEV. 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 | 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lynk & Co 01 1.5T Hybrid utilizes a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine (JLH-3G15TB) paired with an electric motor integrated into the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCTH). The engine itself features multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger and intercooler enhance power output despite the relatively small displacement. The electric motor contributes an additional 54 horsepower and 130 Nm of torque, supplementing the engine’s 143 horsepower and 215 Nm. The system’s combined output is 197 horsepower. The hybrid system is a full hybrid (FHEV), meaning it can operate on electric power alone for short distances and at lower speeds, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. The DCTH transmission provides quick and smooth gear changes, optimizing power delivery and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5T Hybrid DCTH offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the combined output of the engine and electric motor provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The DCTH transmission contributes to brisk gear changes, and the electric motor provides instant torque, filling in gaps in the engine’s power delivery. Compared to higher-output versions of the 01, this variant prioritizes fuel economy and smoothness over outright performance. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The hybrid system operates seamlessly, with transitions between electric and gasoline power largely imperceptible to the driver. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning it may require more aggressive throttle input for quick overtaking maneuvers compared to a manual transmission equipped model.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5T Hybrid DCTH typically came well-equipped, reflecting Lynk & Co’s focus on technology and connectivity. Standard features generally included a large touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically a combination of leatherette and fabric. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and upgraded interior trim materials. The trim level often dictated the availability of these optional features.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 01 features an independent suspension setup at all four corners, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, prioritizing a smooth and controlled ride over aggressive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 01 1.5T Hybrid DCTH was generally well-received by critics in the Chinese market, praised for its stylish design, advanced technology, and comfortable driving experience. Fuel economy was a key selling point, with the hybrid powertrain delivering significantly better mileage than comparable gasoline-only SUVs. Compared to other trims in the 01 lineup, the 1.5T Hybrid offered a more balanced proposition, appealing to buyers who prioritized efficiency and refinement over outright performance. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although long-term data is still emerging given the relatively short production run of this specific variant.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 01 1.5T Hybrid DCTH represents an interesting experiment in automotive brand building and ownership models. While the brand’s subscription-based service didn’t gain widespread traction, the 01 itself proved to be a capable and well-equipped SUV. On the used car market, these models are becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking for a technologically advanced and fuel-efficient vehicle. The powertrain, while relatively complex, has demonstrated reasonable reliability, and parts availability is generally good thanks to the shared components with Volvo and Geely vehicles. The 01 helped establish Lynk & Co as a viable player in the competitive SUV segment, paving the way for future models and expansion into new markets.
