Lynk & Co 08 EMP recognized by the DOE as plug-in hybrid

Lynk & Co Philippines distributor United Asia Automotive Group Inc. (UAAGI) wowed everyone at this year's Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) when they launched the stylish 02 EV. We also got to review the Lynk & Co 02 recently and were surprised by how it performed. With a price tag of less than PHP 2 million, it's also quite the bargain given its level of equipment and features.

But with plug-in hybrids (PHEV) proving to be more popular nowadays, Lynk & Co Philippines appears to be preparing to launch yet another electrified model. After being previewed at the 20^th MIAS earlier this year, Lynk & Co Philippines has received approval from the Department of Energy (DOE).

In a new listing, the DOE has officially recognized the Lynk & Co 08 EMP as a PHEV. That's right, the automaker will soon offer not just the 01 PHEV but also the 08 EMP plug-in hybrid. Based on the DOE's approval, the Lynk & Co 08 EMP is listed as a 2025 model year and measures 4820mm long, 1915mm wide, and 1685mm tall. It also has a 2848mm wheelbase and has 186mm of ground clearance.

According to the initial specifications, the 08 EMP comes with a 1.5L turbocharged engine that's complemented by two electric motors and a 39.6 kWh battery pack. On battery power alone, the 08 EMP is rated to travel up to 205 km based on the WLTP cycle. Combined with the 1.5L turbo, however, Lynk & Co claims the 08 EMP can cover up to 1,400 km before needing to recharge and refuel.

Power-wise, the Lynk & Co 08 EMP (in other markets at least) has a combined system output of 593 PS while torque is rated at a generous 905 Nm.

With the DOE recognizing the Lynk & Co 08 EMP as a PHEV, perhaps it might not be long before UAAGI officially launches it. Once revealed, it could go head-to-head with the likes of the BYD Tang DM-i, which has also been recognized by the DOE and has already been sighted on PH roads recently.