Why Did Zeekr Split from Lynk & Co?
2 Answers
Possibly due to failed collaboration negotiations. The Zeekr 001 was originally the Lynk & Co ZERO in its early stages. Below are detailed insights: 1. Zeekr (ZEEKR) positions itself as a trendy tech brand: Ze: Signifies "extreme," representing the pursuit of ultimate product performance; ekr: Chemical element Kr, a rare gas that emits light during discharge, symbolizing technological innovation in the electric intelligence era. ZE stands for ZERO, starting from zero as both the origin and the endpoint of infinite possibilities; E denotes Electric, Evolution, and Era, embodying the evolutionary era of electric propulsion. 2. The pure electric vehicle brand "Zeekr" under Geely Holding Group has been officially established: The brand logo was officially unveiled. Concurrently, the production version of Lynk & Co ZERO-CONCEPT previously announced by Geely will debut as Zeekr's first model, the "Zeekr 001".
I find the separation of Zeekr and Lynk & Co quite interesting, primarily driven by Geely Group's strategic adjustments. I remember Lynk & Co used to focus on a youthful and trendy approach, with models like the 01 or 05 carrying a sporty vibe that attracted many young buyers. However, Zeekr emerged targeting the high-end EV market, such as the 001 model, which offers spacious interiors and cutting-edge technology. The split allows each brand to focus independently, avoiding blurred brand identities. After all, the EV wave is too strong now, and Zeekr's independence enables quicker market responsiveness, directly competing with brands like Tesla or NIO. Additionally, this division prevents internal resource competition—Lynk & Co continues to excel in traditional and hybrid vehicles, while Zeekr fully commits to pure EV innovation. Post-split, user feedback has been largely positive, with many saying car selection is now more straightforward without brand confusion. Overall, this seems like a wise long-term decision for the company's growth.
