Geely’s ambitious new car brand, Lynk & Co, is preparing to launch a dealership network similar to Tesla in the United States.
In a report published by Automotive News, it’s revealed that like Tesla, Lynk & Co will allow customers to purchase vehicles through the company’s website and for them to then be delivered by company-owned dealerships. Initially, servicing and parts will then be available through Volvo dealers and independent chains.
Lynk & Co intends on launching in the United States in 2018 and depending on the state, could alter its distribution model to whatever is most efficient in each area, according to senior vice president Alain Visser.
“We’re learning from what Tesla has been doing there. It’s not easy, and we know that because Tesla is a ‘home’ brand it has an advantage. We know we will face problems, but we are starting from scratch and—at the end of the day—our model will create employment,” Visser told Car and Driver.
In Europe, the automaker intends on having around 500 sales points and believes that allowing Volvo dealers to service the brand’s models will help both companies.
According to Visser, “Aftersales revenues are declining at any brand, Volvo included, so servicing Lynk cars will permit a higher fixed cost absorption for Volvo dealers, as well as lower investments for Lynk.”
The brand’s first model, the 01, is underpinned by the modular architecture which will be used by the Volvo XC40. Engines are expected to include a number of 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 1.5-liter three-cylinder units as well as a plug-in hybrid.
PHOTO GALLERY
