VinFast officially enters PH

MANILA: Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) specialist VinFast has officially entered the Philippine market via a festive brand launch event at the SM Mall of Asia.

During the launch event, the new car brand showcased several of its fully electric offerings. The most attention-grabbing within the local lineup is the full-size, three-row VF 9 flagship sport utility vehicle.

Next up in the VinFast Philippines local lineup is the compact crossover VF 7 , positioned below the larger VF 9 (in terms of size and segment). The other two four-wheeled EV models that the brand showed off were the VF e34 and the VF 5 hatchback. 

As mentioned, all of the aforementioned vehicles are fully electric models with varying ranges, power outputs, and onboard features. However, most of the nameplates under the VinFast Philippines lineup come standard with advanced driver assist features (ADAS). 

In addition, the higher-spec trim of the previewed VF 9 boasts an estimated range of up to 602 kilometers. All models previewed by VinFast Philippines likewise get CCS/Type 2 charging ports and DC fast charging as standard. 

Several examples of its e-bikes were also showcased at the brand launch event. In total, the marque will bring in six electric two-wheelers, but it was the VinFast Tempest that enjoyed much attention as it was presented to the crowd by the American dance group, Jabbawockeez. 

For now, the brand has yet to disclose the exact retail prices of displayed models. However, it was shared that the brand has already secured the interest of several local automotive distribution companies. 

Relatively, the company shared that it is set to  open six dealerships in soon-to-be-announced areas.  Once the company starts selling the vehicles, it will be packaged with a warranty as long as 10 years . The Vietnamese brand also assured genuine parts supply and the availability of certified EV technicians. 

Aside from the the four EV models and its lineup of e-bikes, the brand teased the upcoming VF 3 city car. The vehicle is a small, boxy EV that boasts an assertive style despite its very compact size. VinFast has yet to announce the VF 3’s exact launch date, but once it arrives locally, it will likely compete against the Jetour Ice Cream EV.

Photos from Cesar Guiderone Miguel

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