Lynk & Co promises lifetime warranty and free global connectivity
Geely’s Lynk & Co brand will launch the 01 crossover in China with a lifetime warranty and free internet connectivity, aiming to set itself apart as it prepares for global expansion.
Lynk & Co, Geely’s new automotive brand, confirmed at the 2017 Auto Shanghai motor show that its first production model, the 01 crossover, will launch in China with a lifetime warranty and free internet connectivity as standard. The company said these features will be included on every production vehicle, with global data access provided from the point of purchase.
The 01 crossover, which has completed development and testing in both Scandinavian and Chinese conditions, is scheduled to begin production later in 2017 at Geely’s Luqiao plant in eastern China. Lynk & Co intends to begin Chinese sales in the final quarter of the year, with launches in Europe and the United States targeted for 2019.
Lifetime warranty and free connectivity
Lynk & Co claims to be the first manufacturer to offer free global internet connectivity as standard across its model range. Each vehicle will come with complimentary data access, with the company stating this will apply worldwide. The brand has also announced plans for a lifetime warranty for its vehicles, though at launch this was described as an intention rather than a finalised programme. Details on the precise terms and geographical coverage of the warranty were not confirmed at the show.
These moves are intended to position Lynk & Co as a technology-focused brand, targeting buyers who expect seamless digital services and long-term ownership security. The company’s approach is to differentiate itself from established rivals by offering services that are typically optional or time-limited elsewhere. The 01 will be the first model to carry these features, with further models expected to follow the same template as the brand expands.
Production and sales plans
The Luqiao plant, dedicated to Lynk & Co production, will supply the Chinese market initially. The company has stated that the 01 crossover has undergone a comprehensive global testing programme, including cold-weather trials in Scandinavia and hot-weather testing in China’s Turpan desert. European and US launches are planned for 2019, but no further details on pricing or final specification for those markets have been released.
Lynk & Co’s entry into the market with a lifetime warranty and free connectivity will be closely watched by established manufacturers, particularly as connected car services become an increasing focus for buyers. The company’s promises set a new benchmark for what buyers may expect as standard in a new vehicle, at least in the Chinese market.
