The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P 220 Performance, launched in 2023, represents a significant offering in the burgeoning plug-in hybrid SUV market. Positioned as a premium trim within the 08 lineup, it combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with a sophisticated dual-electric motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering a combined output of 593 horsepower. The 08, built upon the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform developed by Geely, aims to blend Scandinavian design aesthetics with advanced Chinese automotive technology, primarily targeting the domestic Chinese market with potential for expansion into other regions. This variant specifically caters to buyers seeking high performance and extended electric range within a luxury SUV package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 08 |
| Generation | 08 |
| Type (Engine) | EM-P 220 Performance 1.5TD (593 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid E-AWD DHT Evo |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 0.97 l/100 km (242.5 US mpg, 291.2 UK mpg, 103.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Gross battery capacity | 39.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 185 km (114.95 mi) |
| Electric motor power (1) | 218 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (1) | TZ220WY035 |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 212 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (2) | 290 Nm (213.89 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code (2) | TZ184XY030 |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 593 Hp |
| System torque | 905 Nm (667.49 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine Power | 163 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Engine Torque | 255 Nm @ 2500-4000 rpm (188.08 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | BHE15-BFZ |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.57 mm (3.49 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2625 kg (5787.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 545 l (19.25 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1277 l (45.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4820 mm (189.76 in.) |
| Width | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Height | 1685 mm (66.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2848 mm (112.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1635 mm (64.37 in.) |
| Front overhang | 930 mm (36.61 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1042 mm (41.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 186 mm (7.32 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.295 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18° |
| Departure angle | 21° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels, one electric motor drives front wheels, one electric motor drives rear wheels. Full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 3 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission DHT Evo |
| Front suspension | Independent, type 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 | 235/55 R19; 255/40 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P 220 Performance utilizes a plug-in hybrid powertrain centered around a 1.5-liter, turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder engine (code BHE15-BFZ). This engine produces 163 horsepower and 255 Nm (188 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is paired with a sophisticated DHT Evo (Dedicated Hybrid Transmission) 3-speed automatic transmission, which intelligently manages power delivery between the internal combustion engine and the dual electric motors. The front electric motor (TZ220WY035) delivers 218 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, while the rear electric motor (TZ184XY030) contributes 212 horsepower and 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output reaches a substantial 593 horsepower and 905 Nm (667 lb-ft) of torque. The 39.6 kWh lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide (Li-NMC) battery pack, positioned under the floor, provides an all-electric range of 185 km (115 miles) according to WLTC standards. The DHT Evo transmission acts as a continuously variable transmission (CVT) emulator, optimizing efficiency and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 08 EM-P 220 Performance delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4.6 seconds. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The DHT Evo transmission prioritizes smooth and seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and gasoline power modes. Compared to lower-powered versions of the 08, the EM-P 220 offers significantly enhanced performance, making it the range-topping variant. The gear ratios within the DHT Evo are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency, although the added weight of the battery pack and electric motors is noticeable during spirited driving. The steering is precise and well-weighted, contributing to a confident driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The EM-P 220 Performance trim comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including premium leather upholstery, a large touchscreen infotainment system with integrated navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras include a premium sound system, ventilated and massaging front seats, and a head-up display. The interior design emphasizes minimalist Scandinavian aesthetics with high-quality materials and a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The 08 EM-P 220 Performance features an independent suspension system with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, both incorporating coil springs and anti-roll bars. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The vehicle’s relatively high curb weight (2200 kg / 4850 lbs) necessitates a robust braking system to ensure adequate stopping power.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P 220 Performance has been well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its impressive performance, long electric range, and luxurious interior. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs in its class, such as the BYD Tang DM-i and the AITO M5, the 08 offers a compelling combination of power, efficiency, and technology. Critics have noted the vehicle’s sophisticated design and advanced features, but some have pointed to its relatively high price point as a potential drawback. Fuel economy is exceptional for a vehicle of its size and performance, achieving a combined consumption of just 0.97 l/100 km.
Legacy
As a relatively new model, the long-term reliability of the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P 220 Performance remains to be fully established. However, Geely, the parent company of Lynk & Co, has a reputation for producing reliable vehicles. The sophisticated powertrain and advanced technology employed in the 08 suggest that it will require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. On the used car market, the 08 EM-P 220 Performance is expected to hold its value well due to its desirable features and strong performance credentials. The combination of a powerful engine, extended electric range, and luxurious amenities positions it as a premium offering in the rapidly evolving plug-in hybrid SUV segment.
