India’s electric vehicle scene is heating up, and a fresh contender is joining the race. Vinfast, the Vietnamese EV manufacturer backed by the powerful Vingroup, is setting its sights on India with a bold entry strategy. With a factory under construction, strategic partnerships, and two electric SUVs ready to roll out, Vinfast is clearly serious about making a splash in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets.
Launch
Vinfast made its Indian intentions clear in February 2024 when it announced a new manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu. Just weeks later, they broke ground in Thoothukudi, marking the brand’s second factory outside Vietnam. The investment? A hefty 500 million US dollars, or over 4,000 crore rupees, over the next five years.
Once operational, the factory is expected to produce up to 1.5 lakh vehicles annually and create thousands of jobs. Vinfast aims to begin production swiftly, with deliveries scheduled to align with India’s busy festive season.
In a smart move to build brand awareness early, Vinfast has been showcasing its upcoming VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs in shopping malls across 11 Indian states and cities. The idea is simple—get the cars in front of as many eyes as possible before launch. Alongside this, the company is building a strong dealership and service network with the help of local firms like Global Assure.
Origin
Vinfast might seem like a newcomer, but it comes from experienced hands. Its parent company, Vingroup, is one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates, with ventures in education, healthcare, real estate, retail, and now automotive. Vinfast officially entered the car business in 2017, producing internal combustion engine vehicles in Vietnam after securing technology from global partners.
Their first public appearance was at the 2018 Paris Motor Show with models like the Lux A2.0 sedan and Lux SA2.0 SUV. But in 2021, Vinfast made a big shift—it announced it would go all-electric, dropping petrol and diesel engines entirely. This bold pivot was backed by Vingroup’s deep pockets and a growing global demand for EVs.
Lineup
At the 2024 Bharat Mobility Expo, Vinfast introduced its EV range to India. While the brand has multiple electric vehicles in its global lineup, it is starting with two models: the VF 6 and VF 7.
The Vinfast VF 6 is set to be the entry-level offering for Indian buyers. It’s a compact five-seater SUV with signature V-shaped LED DRLs on both ends, highlighting the brand’s identity. It will likely be available in two variants—Eco and Plus—both powered by a 59.6 kWh battery pack.
For those wanting a bigger and more feature-rich SUV, the Vinfast VF 7 will be a step up. Also a five-seater, the VF 7 comes with a larger 70.8 kWh battery, offering more power and range. Expect tech-focused features like Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), a large 12.9-inch touchscreen, coloured heads-up display, rear AC vents, a fixed panoramic glass roof, dual-zone climate control, and premium vegan leather interiors.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | VF 6 | VF 7 |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Battery Size | 59.6 kWh | 70.8 kWh |
| Expected Variants | Eco, Plus | Eco, Plus |
| Key Features | LED DRLs, compact design | ADAS, larger screen, premium trim |
| Launch Focus | Entry-level EV SUV | Premium mid-size EV SUV |
Future
Beyond the VF 6 and VF 7, Vinfast has also showcased the smaller VF 3 and the full-size VF 9 SUV, both of which are part of the brand’s future India plans. The VF 3, a compact city EV, could be a great fit for urban buyers, while the VF 9 is a luxury flagship aimed at families or executives.
Vinfast’s challenge will be to stand out in India’s already crowded EV space, which includes both homegrown and global brands. But with an aggressive investment strategy, a dedicated manufacturing plant, and a focus on both affordability and premium tech, it’s positioned well to take on the competition.
India’s electric vehicle future just got more exciting—and Vinfast is one of the reasons why.
FAQs
Where is Vinfast setting up its plant in India?
In Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, with a $500 million investment.
What are Vinfast’s first models for India?
The VF 6 and VF 7 electric SUVs will be launched first.
When will Vinfast start production in India?
Production is expected to begin before the 2025 festive season.
Is Vinfast a new company?
Vinfast was launched in 2017 by Vietnam’s Vingroup.
Will Vinfast offer more models in India?
Yes, future launches may include the VF 3 and VF 9.
