Takeaways:
- Lynk & Co gains access to over 125 European retail points through Volvo’s existing network, avoiding the cost and time of building standalone infrastructure.
- The MoU is non-binding with final agreements pending, but establishes a template for Chinese brands to use European premium dealer networks as distribution channels.
Volvo Cars has signed a memorandum of understanding with Geely Auto to become the exclusive European importer and distributor of Lynk & Co vehicles, granting the Chinese brand immediate access to Volvo’s established retail network.
According to a March 30 announcement from Volvo Cars, the partnership makes Volvo responsible for Lynk & Co’s commercial operations and brand activities across Europe, subject to final agreements .
Why Volvo Is Distributing Lynk & Co
Three Lynk & Co models are covered by the MoU: the 01 plug-in hybrid, the 02 battery-electric compact crossover, and the 08 plug-in hybrid . Volvo intends to sell and service these vehicles through its existing European dealer network, which spans over 125 retail points and 350 service workshops.
The arrangement builds on an existing partnership where both brands already share retail locations in select European markets .
Volvo Chief Commercial Officer Erik Severinson stated that the partnership allows Volvo to “leverage our commercial system to support Lynk & Co’s growth ambitions in Europe” while enabling Volvo and its retail partners to “address a wider customer base” without additional product investment.
The two brands are positioned as appealing to different customer segments, making them natural collaboration partners according to the companies .
Lynk & Co’s subscription model is being phased out entirely in 2026, with the brand having already shifted to traditional retail structures.
In Germany, the 02 BEV is currently priced from approximately €36,000, delivering 272 horsepower and 445 kilometers of WLTP range from a 66 kWh battery . The 02 shares the SEA platform with the Volvo EX30 and Zeekr X .
What to Watch in European Distribution
Lynk & Co’s equity structure has shifted. Volvo Cars sold its 30 percent stake in the brand to Geely’s Zeekr in 2025, with Zeekr now holding 51 percent while Geely retains 49 percent . Responsibility for Lynk & Co’s global development, product certification, and operations outside Europe remains with the brand’s parent company in China .
The MoU is non-binding, and final commercial agreements are still pending . For European dealers, the arrangement represents an early test of whether established premium European networks will serve as distribution channels for Chinese-built vehicles carrying the full 18.8 percent anti-subsidy duty plus 10 percent standard tariff .
If Volvo can profitably import, distribute, and service Chinese-built Lynk & Co vehicles through its European network, which European dealer groups are most exposed to revenue shifting from European OEM service work toward Chinese-brand volume?
