VinFast reveals VF5, VF6 and VF7, promises EV-only range by late 2022
Vinfast has revealed three new electric cars that it plans to begin selling in the near future.
The new models – VF5, VF6 and VF7 – join the VF8 and VF9 that were previously known as the VF e35 and VF e36.
Hot on the heels of two Australian-influenced VinFasts shown late last year – the cars now known as the VF8 and VF9 – the new arrivals come as the ambitious Vietnamese startup announced it would stop selling cars with internal combustion engines by the end of 2022.
Not that VinFast is known for its ICE vehicles – or any vehicles. Its early models used BMW engines and only began manufacturing – predominantly for the Vietnamese market – in 2019.
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But VinFast is planning big things with an all-EV lineup that is planned to be sold in Europe and America as well as its homeland of Vietnam.
“VinFast is committed to innovative vehicle design, quality, and technology, along with excellent customer service,” said Madam Le Thi Thu Thuy, Vingroup Vice Chair and VinFast Global CEO.
“We even aspire to greater achievements – to be one of the leading electric vehicle manufacturers in the world while inspiring our customers to be boundless together and join hands in the electric vehicle revolution, creating a sustainable future for all.”
It’s certainly an aspirational goal given the competition in the market from existing car makers and fresh EV-focused arrivals.
VinFast VF5
The smallest of the five VinFast models, the VF5 is the size of a city hatchback, albeit with more of an SUV flavour.
Like all five models it has been designed by Italian design houses Pininfarina and Torino Design.
Sleek LED lights form a V into the V badge in the centre of the bonnet, while bulging wheel arches contribute to the stocky look.
No word yet on what’s beneath the skin. VinFast hasn’t detailed what battery packs and motor/s will be in any of their cars
VinFast VF6
In line with the larger number the VinFast VF6 gets a slightly larger body, although it’s still compact, officially classified as a B segment vehicle.
The VF6 looks about the size of a small car, although again it’s more SUV than hatchback courtesy of the black flared wheel arches.
Styling themes match those of the VF6, although the VF6 gets a smoother silhouette.
Vinfast VF7
The VinFast VF7 looks set to play in the small-to-medium SUV segment and comes with a more angular design with bolder highlights.
Strong black details break up the clean look while the slim windowline adds some visual muscle.
Again, no word on what’s going on under the skin.
VinFast VF8
It was only last month VinFast announced the VF e35. But that car is now known as the VF8.
Roughly the size of the upcoming Tesla Model Y – putting it in the sweet spot of the SUV market – the VF8 will be offered as an entry-level Eco model or a better equipped Plus.
Both have the option of a regular or long range battery, with 460km and 510km ranges respectively.
The VF8 will come with dual 150kW motors, although the Eco model produces a combined maximum of 260kW and 500Nm whereas the Plus gets the full 300kW and 640Nm for faster acceleration.
US pricing for the VF8 starts as US$41,000 ($57,500), which makes it a lot cheaper than the US$60,990 start price of the Tesla Model Y Long Range.
VinFast VF9
The VF9 is the largest car in VinFast’s initial five-model lineup, putting it up against some of the largest electric SUVs on the market.
At 5120mm long, 2000mm wide and 1721mm high it’s larger than the Tesla Model X and upcoming BMW iX.
Like the VF8, the VF9 gets twin 150kW electric motors and will be offered as an Eco or more highly-specified Plus.
However, both models make the same 300kW and 640Nm.
The regular battery pack provides a claimed range of 485km while a larger pack steps that up to 680km.
Pricing for the VF9 starts at US$56,000 ($78,500).
VinFast in Australia
There’s an Aussie connection with VinFast. It bought the former Holden proving ground and hired various Holden engineers as part its development program.
Those local operations were shortlived, though, with the facilities subsequently shut down.
There’s no word yet on when or if VinFast vehicles will be sold in Australia, although they’re expected to eventually make it here.
