A recent nighttime accident involving a Lynk & Co Z20 electric SUV has forced the automaker to deploy an emergency over-the-air (OTA) software update, demonstrating the growing safety implications of voice-controlled vehicle systems. The incident, reported by Chinese media outlet Sohu, occurred when a driver unintentionally deactivated the vehicle’s headlights using a voice command while driving on a highway.
The driver attempted to turn off an interior light via voice control, but the system instead shut off the exterior headlights. Repeated attempts to reactivate the lights via voice commands failed before the vehicle collided with a guardrail. The incident highlights how complex cockpit software has become safety-critical in China’s rapidly expanding EV market.
On February 26, 2026, Lynk & Co Sales deputy general manager Mu Jun issued an apology on Weibo, confirming the issue was resolved with an OTA update. The update restricts the ability to disable headlights via voice commands while the vehicle is in motion, requiring manual control instead.
The Lynk & Co Z20 is a compact SUV measuring 4,460 mm long, 1,845 mm wide, and 1,573 mm high with a 2,755 mm wheelbase. It competes directly with popular models like the BYD Yuan Plus, Aion Y Plus, and Smart #1 in China’s competitive 110,000–150,000 yuan (approximately $15,290–$21,000 USD) price range. The vehicle uses Geely’s SEA architecture and features a 61 kWh battery offering a CLTC range of around 530 km, with fast-charging capabilities claiming 15 minutes from 10% to 80%.
This incident underscores the importance of robust software governance in the automotive industry. Brands must prioritize safety and reliability in OTA updates to maintain consumer trust and prevent dangerous errors.
The speed of Lynk & Co’s response highlights how critical software oversight now is for brand perception and safety. The incident serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly minor software glitches can have severe real-world consequences, especially in vehicles with increasingly complex digital interfaces.
