MADHURENDRA SINHA/h5>
NEW DELHI: AFTER the success of Japanese, South Korean and other global car brands in India, a Southeast Asian car manufacturer is set to make waves in the country. VinFast, a subsidiary of Vietnamese conglomerate Vingroup, made its foray recently with EVs that are equipped with latest technology, modern design, and affordable price.
A Vietnamese EV backed by complete ecosystem
The company has already begun production at its Rs 4,150 crore (approx. $500 million) electric vehicle manufacturing plant at Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. The facility will initially produce 50,000 EVs annually, with a potential to scale up to 150,000 units.
At a launch event in Delhi on September 6, VinFast CEO Pham Sanh Chau, said, “We do not consider volumes as our key performance indicator. Our aim is to sell the first 1,500 cars with significant benefits – three years of free charging, three years of free maintenance, and a ten-year warranty.” VinFast introduced its first two models for the Indian market: VF6, a compact SUV priced Rs 16.99 lakh onwards, and VF7, a mid-sized SUV starting at Rs 22.99 lakh.
The VF6, a feature-rich electric SUV, is equipped with a 59.6 kWh battery pack capable of fast charging from 10 pc to 70 pc in just 25 minutes. It offers a certified range of up to 468 km. The VF7 showcases the brand’s bold design philosophy, described as “the universe is asymmetrical,” blending striking exterior lines with premium interiors. This large SUV – available in five variants – boasts seven airbags, six speakers, and a 12.9-inch infotainment display among tis key features.
VinFast has already appointed 35 dealers across the country. Sachin JK Haritash, Managing Director of Haritash Mobility, Gurugram, expressed optimism about the brand’s entry. “We firmly believe in our Founder-Chairman’s vision to provide safe, reliable, and luxurious green vehicles for a cleaner future,” he said.
VinFast vehicles, he said, “are designed for the young and GenZ consumers who seek speed with safety and style with simplicity. The interiors match those of high-end luxury cars.”
CEO Chau said that VinFast is not entering India merely as a car manufacturer, “we’re bringing an entire ecosystem.” VinFast plans to introduce ebuses, e-scooters, and e-taxis, as well as green energy and solar solutions, he added. “In time, we will also bring VinMec hospitals, VinSchool education institutions, and VinGroup resorts to India,” the CEO emphasised.