Lynk & Co, a joint venture between Geely and Volvo, has developed a varied lineup since its launch in 2017. Known for its involvement in motorsport with the 03 TCR, a racing version of the 03 sedan designed by Cyan Racing, the brand has competed in the Touring Car Racing (TCR) series. The 03 TCR, equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 340 hp and 420 Nm of torque, has won multiple WTCR titles. Drivers such as Thed Bjรถrk, Yann Ehrlacher, Santiago Urrutia, and Ma Qing Hua have represented the car.
Zeekr, another brand under Geely, became a standalone company in March 2021. Its first model, theย Zeekr 001 (see specs), launched in April of that year and initially started as the Lynk & Co Zero concept. The Zero was revealed at the delayed 2020 Beijing Auto Show, and by production, it had been rebranded as the Zeekr 001.
In recent years, Lynk & Co has focused on producing PHEVs. However, it has finally released its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the Lynk & Co Z10. Sharing the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform with the Zeekr 001, the Z10 is available with 400V and 800V options, marking a shift towards electrification for the brand. Within 24 hours of its launch on 5 September in China, Lynk & Co has received over 5,000 lock-in orders (non-refundable deposits) for the Z10.
Exterior Design
The Z10โs design follows the Lynk & Co Next Day concept, featuring thin split LED daytime running lights at the front, a continuous LED light strip at the rear, and a trapezoid grille. Its sleek, coupe-like shape, with a sloping roofline and rising beltline, contributes to a drag coefficient of 0.198 Cd. Its side profile reminds us of the Lotus Emeya. Measuring 5028 /1966/1468 mm with a 3005 mm wheelbase, the Z10 fits into the mid-to-large sedan category. Additional features include a LiDAR sensor on the roof, retractable door handles, and an active spoiler. The doors closed with a solid, reassuring feel, precisely aligned panels, and a finely finished paint job.
The Interior
The Lynk & Co Z10 is the first Chinese production car to use an AMD chipset. The AMD V2000A chip, which achieves a performance of 394K DMIPs, provides 1.8 times the computing power of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295. This chipset supports the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 15.4-inch multimedia display, and the augmented reality head-up display (AR-HUD). The Z10 also includes Flyme Link for syncing accounts and features between the car and a smartphone.
The minimalistic center console includes wireless charging pads and hidden compartments. The leather-upholstered seats provide heating, ventilation, and massage functions for both front and rear passengers. For audiophiles, the Harman Kardon sound system comes with 23 speakers (7.1.4 surround sound) and a 1600W amplifier. The infotainment system runs the Flyme Auto system, developed in partnership with Meizu.
Storage
The trunk provides 616 liters of cargo space.
Driving Experience
Our test car is the dual-motor all-wheel-drive Z10, equipped with a 310 kW rear motor and a 270 kW front motor, delivering a total of 580 kW with max torque of 810 Nm. We must mention that at the time of testing the Z10, the Flyme Auto software was a beta version, and autonomous driving functions were disabled during our test drive.
In Comfort mode, the Z10 adjusts its ride height slightly and softens the front suspension, which enhances overall ride comfort. The dual-chamber air suspension and CDC system effectively manage the vehicleโs bounce and provide stability, even over bumps. With the thinner 21-inch Michelin tires, the ride is smooth, with noticeable bumps without harshness. This setup suits daily commuting, offering a refined driving experience. Despite the relaxed demeanor, the steering responsiveness and precision are notably superior to the Zeekr 007 (see specs). The dual-motor system provides exceptional acceleration, making overtaking effortless.
Switching to Sport Mode results in a more aggressive driving experience. The throttle response becomes direct and unfiltered, offering an immediate connection between the driverโs input and the vehicleโs acceleration. The chassis stiffens, enhancing road feel and agility at high speeds. However, this mode may highlight minor road imperfections, making it less ideal for uneven surfaces.
In Sport+ mode, the Z10 reaches its peak performance. The instrument cluster turns red, signaling the most dynamic setup. The throttle response is highly aggressive, and the electronic stability system adopts a more lenient approach, optimizing grip on winding roads. The suspension lowered and became very firm, making road imperfections more pronounced and potentially uncomfortable for passengers.
This top-spec Z10 reminds us of the BMW 5 Series with its blend of excellent space, luxurious features, and strong driving dynamics. Compared to the Zeekr 001, the new Lynk & Co Z10 is embedded with Lynk & Coโs DNA tuned for a sporty drive, while the Zeekr 001 is tuned towards a comfort bias.
Range
Our test car is the 800V AWD Smart Ultra version with a 702 km CLTC range. Its 800V fast-charging system can add 573 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes. All Z10 variants are powered by lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.
Safety Features
The Lynk & Co Z10 offers key safety features, including a high-strength body structure and battery protection capable of withstanding forces up to 65 tons. The vehicle uses 84.65% high-strength steel and aluminum, with ultra-high-strength steel in the upper and roof frames. The torsional stiffness of the whole vehicle is as high as 45500 N-m/ deg. LiDAR sensors aid autonomous driving, while a projection display system on the windshield and face recognition for access enhance safety and functionality.
Conclusion
Adding the Z10 sedan to the Lynk & Co lineup is vital in the brandโs shift towards electrification. It expands the existing range of internal combustion and hybrid models, catering to customers increasingly looking for electric alternatives. This move highlights the brandโs focus on evolving its product range to meet the marketโs changing demands.
The new Z10, with its Lynk & Co racing DNA imprinted in it, is also priced Z10 62,200 yuan (8,800 USD)ย cheaper than Zeekr 001. I know which one I prefer. Stay tuned for next weekโsย Sunday China Driveย atย Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.
