Geely to launch ride-sharing auto brand

Geely, the Chinese auto maker that owns Volvo Cars, launched a new automobile brand aimed at motorists who want to share their cars. Called Lynk & Co., the new brand aims to tap the global market for ride-sharing and car-hailing services while taking on giants including Volkswagen AG and BMW AG. According to The Wall Street Journal, the company will start selling its 01 compact sport-utility vehicle next year in China, and in Europe and the US in 2018. The launch is the latest attempt by a Chinese car maker to appeal to affluent westerners after earlier efforts failed. Qoros Auto, Jiangling Motors Landwind brand and Brilliance China Automotive all entered Western Europe in recent years but sold very few cars. Lynk plans to launch at least five models.