VinFast's Foray into India's EV Market with Premium VF 6 and VF 7 Launch
VinFast, a subsidiary of Vietnam’s Vingroup JSC, has made a significant entry into India’s burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market by unveiling its first premium electric SUVs: the VF 6 and VF 7. These models are not only crafted with international expertise but also manufactured in India, marking a pivotal step for VinFast and the country’s EV sector.
At the heart of the launch, VinFast displayed a clear commitment to supporting India's transition to electric mobility. The introduction of the VF 6 and VF 7 adds momentum to this shift, offering Indian consumers a blend of technology, style, and sustainability. Mr. Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, highlighted that the cars are "made by Indians, for Indians," underscoring VinFast's strategic focus on local production and consumer needs.
Premium Electric SUVs for the Indian Market
The entry into India reflects a well-timed move as the market experiences growing interest in premium electric SUVs. The VF 6 and VF 7 are built to cater to this demand, offering features typical of higher segments and advanced safety technologies.
VinFast VF 6 Features
- Battery: 59.6 kWh with 25-minute fast charging (10-70%)
- Range: Up to 468 km (ARAI certified)
- Wheelbase and Ground Clearance: 2,730 mm and 190 mm
- Variant Options: Earth, Wind, and Wind Infinity
VF 6 Earth: Delivers 130 kW peak power, 250 Nm torque, featuring independent rear suspension, drive modes, black interiors, 12.9-inch infotainment, automatic AC, cruise control, and a piano-inspired gear selector.
VF 6 Wind: Offers 150 kW peak power, 310 Nm torque, with performance rated at 0-100 kmph in 8.9 seconds. Comes with Mocca brown interiors, premium vegan leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, dual-zone AC, an 8-speaker system, and a full ADAS Level 2 suit.
VF 6 Wind Infinity: Includes a large panoramic fixed glass roof.
Standard features include auto LED projector headlamps, signature lights, multiple drive modes, and extensive safety features like 7 airbags and a 360-degree surround view monitor.
VinFast VF 7 Features
- Length and Wheelbase: Over 4.5 meters and 2,840 mm
- Battery Options: 59.6 kWh and 70.8 kWh
- Configuration: FWD and AWD
- Variant Options: Earth, Wind, Wind Infinity, Sky, and Sky Infinity
VF 7 Earth: Features 130 kW peak power, 250 Nm torque, 24-minute fast charging (10-70%), with black vegan leather interiors, cruise control, and 19-inch wheels.
VF 7 Wind: Boasts a 70.8 kWh battery, 150 kW power, reaching 100 kmph in 9.5 seconds. Includes dual-zone AC, 8-speaker audio, and adaptive cruise control.
VF 7 Sky: Adds a dual motor setup for AWD capability with 260 kW combined power.
Standard features cover extensive safety and convenience technologies including heated ORVM, auto LED headlamps, and connected car tech.
Driving the Infrastructure
To support these vehicles, VinFast is establishing a comprehensive ecosystem through partnerships with banks for financing, and with firms like RoadGrid and myTVS for charging and after-sales services. The collaboration with BatX Energies ensures sustainable battery recycling, aligning with VinFast's broader environmental goals.
The company is expanding its footprint rapidly, planning 35 dealer points and 26 workshops by the end of 2025, targeting major cities and emerging EV hubs. This network is crucial for VinFast to effectively serve Indian consumers and fortify its market presence.
The Road Ahead
VinFast's entry into India is not just a market move; it's a strategic positioning for long-term influence in the global EV landscape. With its made-in-India manufacturing at the state-of-the-art plant in Thoothukudi, the company is set to contribute significantly to India's ambitions of becoming a leader in electric mobility.
As global markets continue to embrace electric vehicles, VinFast leverages its experiences from successful entries in the US, Europe, and Asia, using this backdrop to spearhead its growth in India. By creating vehicles that resonate with Indian consumers' aspirations for advanced and sustainable mobility, VinFast is poised to play a key role in the country's EV revolution.