VinFast VF3 EV: Record Orders Pour in Despite Limited Range

By Dabbie Davis

May 20, 2024 03:19 AM EDT

LIGHT TRAILS ON HIGHWAY AT NIGHT
(Photo : PEXELS/PIXABAY)

The compact VinFast VF3 electric car, slated for the US market, garnered unprecedented orders in Vietnam. VinFast is now open for deposits on the VF 3 in its domestic market.

VinFast VF3: Record-Breaking Orders

In readiness for the launch, the company disclosed that the model boasts 43 hp and a range of 130 miles. VinFast unveiled fresh insights into the charming VF 3 prior to its Vietnam debut. Inside EVs reported that within 66 hours of the commercial release, VinFast amassed 27,649 non-refundable pre-orders, marking a record in Vietnam for a new vehicle, as confirmed by the manufacturer of the VF3 and VF8.

Moreover, VinFast established an online reservation platform and collaborated with various e-commerce sites in Vietnam to ensure accessibility for potential customers seeking to pre-order effortlessly while browsing the web.

VinFast faced previous scrutiny over its sales figures. Inside EVs referenced a Barron's report from last year which highlighted that a significant portion of VinFast's 2023 sales were internal, particularly to a taxi subsidiary under the Vingroup parent company.

While the brand may attract individual buyers, there is a valid concern that a considerable portion of sales could essentially be internal transactions.

Pricing, Other Details for VinFast VF3

As reported by CarScoops, the pricing begins at 240 million VND ($9,428) excluding the battery and 322 million VND ($12,650) inclusive of it. Customers opting for a battery subscription will have access to three distinct plans. The basic plan, priced at 900,000 VND ($35), targets individuals driving under 1,500 km (932 miles) monthly. Conversely, the premium plan at 2,000,000 VND ($79) caters to those exceeding 2,500 km (1,553 miles) per month.

Apart from pricing considerations, the VF 3 offers a wide range of colors, comprising four standard shades and five additional choices. For those seeking a personalized touch, there's an option to select a custom color for an extra fee of 15 million VND ($589).

VinFast didn't disclose many additional specifics, but the model boasts 7.5 inches (191 mm) of ground clearance and will come equipped with aerodynamically optimized 16-inch wheels. Notable features include plastic body cladding, blacked-out pillars, and a cabin that houses a single 10-inch display serving as both a digital instrument cluster and infotainment system.

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Complementing this setup are a two-spoke steering wheel, simplistic controls, and subtle accents of color. Furthermore, buyers can expect a rear seat that folds down, offering 10 cubic feet (285 liters) of cargo space.

CarScoops reported that VinFast revealed the integration of Sony's RIDEVU streaming video service into the VF 8. This service offers access to a library of over 2,000 movies; however, these can only be viewed on the infotainment system when the vehicle is stationary. Lacking Mercedes-like SplitView technology, VinFast requires passengers to utilize their smartphones or tablets for entertainment while the vehicle is in motion. Consequently, passengers are likely to opt for platforms like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video for on-the-go viewing.

U.S Line up Expansion

According to MotorTrend, the Vietnamese automaker intended to launch the midsize VinFast VF 8 and VF 9 SUVs in the United States this year, followed by the VF 7 and VF 6 in 2023. VinFast confirmed the arrival of two smaller SUV EVs for the American market in 2023, after the first two midsize electric SUVs are introduced.

VinFast planned to deliver the two-row 2023 VinFast VF 8 and three-row 2023 VinFast VF 9 from its Vietnamese plant to about thirty company-owned locations in California during the fourth quarter of 2022.

VinFast has unveiled prototypes of the smaller SUVs, and according to Westbrook, the final production models will remain mostly unchanged. While specific pricing details are not yet available, VinFast is adopting a unique pricing strategy where the vehicle cost does not encompass the battery pack; instead, the battery pack will be available for lease at a monthly fee.

Post-2024, customers will have the option to either purchase or lease the battery for their vehicles.

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