Just one year after entering the Indian market, VinFast has already released three electric vehicles and continues to grow its dealership and service network. As part of its growth strategy, the EV manufacturer looks to increase sales by doubling its sales and strengthening its presence in the growing EV sector.
In order to meet this goal, VinFast can expand its range. With the VF6, VF7, VF5 and VF3, there are four electric vehicles that can help VinFast reach more customers in India. This includes EV SUVs which are great for families and small, affordable EV cars.
VinFast VF6
The VinFast VF6 is a compact luxurious electric SUV with its design focussing on sleek lines, with full width LED DRLs as the main feature, along with a modern interior. It comes with a 59.6 kWh battery which provides an ARAI certified range of up to 468km. With a front-wheel drive electric motor that provides between 174 and 201bhp (depending on variant), and maximum torque of 310Nm. It can charge from 10-70% in around 25 minutes. As standard it comes with a big 12.9 inch touchscreen, 7 airbags, level 2 ADAS system, 360 camera, electric passenger seat and Dual Zone Climate Control. It falls into the Rs 16-20 Lakh range, aiming to target buyers wanting a feature packed mid-size electric SUV.
VinFast VF7
Larger than its sibling, VinFast VF7 offers an upgraded mid-sized EV SUV with an aggressive ‘asymmetric aerospace’ design. With a longer wheelbase and increased presence, it comes with two battery options: 59.6 kWh and around 70-70.8 kWh. It has a range of up to 532 km (claimed) depending on the variant and drivetrain. The power on offer varies from around 174 bhp for the base model to over 340 bhp for the dual motor all-wheel drive variants with maximum torque of 500 Nm. The top-end models feature air vents, electric tailgate, smart ADAS package and upgraded interior. Priced starting at around 21-28 Lakhs, the VF7 falls in the high spec large compact to mid-sized e-SUV category. It helps elevate VinFast’s premium image.
VinFast VF5
VinFast has begun testing the sub-4m long VF5 electric SUV in India. The design patent for the EV has been filed as well. However, the test mule of the India variant looks different from the one that is being sold internationally. The upcoming electric SUV features a redesigned but familiar front grille with LED DRLs, redesigned headlights and new alloy wheels. The interior is likely to have a minimal look with a big touchscreen infotainment system. The international variant comes with two battery pack options – one with a 29.6 kWh and another with a 37.23 kWh battery pack. The smaller option gives the vehicle a claimed range of approximately 260-268 km and the bigger one a range of 326 km (NEDC). It has an electric motor producing around 90-136 bhp (with the higher power variant producing around 134 bhp). The power is sent to the front wheels. The sub-4m long electric SUV is expected to be priced around Rs 12 lakh and will compete against some popular competitors like the Tata Punch EV, Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV 3XO EV. The facelifted variant has already been patented and was spotted during testing in India. It is likely to be launched in 2026-2027.
VinFast VF3
VinFast’s compact four-seater two-door mini SUV, the VF3 features a unique boxy design and a good amount of ground clearance (around 191 mm), suitable for city driving. It is powered by an approximate 18.6kWh battery pack which can provide a range of 200-215km. The car has a rear-mounted electric motor providing around 39-43.5bhp and 110Nm of torque with a fast acceleration time of around 5.3 seconds for 0-50km/h. It also has fast charging capabilities of 10-70% in just 36 minutes. The VF3 is expected to cost between Rs 8-10Lakh which will target new EV buyers. It will mainly compete with the MG Comet EV. Although there are plans to manufacture some models locally, the VF3 is an important volume player in VinFast’s long term strategy in India.
Will These Four Electric Cars Help VinFast Double Their Sales in India?
Moving forward in India, VinFast will need to build a reliable network of dealerships, increase awareness and offer vehicles that will appeal to different budgets.
Offering the VF6 and VF7 could help VinFast increase their presence in the EV SUV market. Offering the VF5 and VF3 could help them reach customers looking for smaller and more affordable EVs.
However, these are just potential options. They would need to officially announce their plans to launch them in India along with their spec and pricing.
To reach their sales goals, VinFast will need to offer competitive pricing, attractive designs, practical range and good after-sales. As the EV car market in India becomes more competitive.