VinFast launches three new models, renames existing vehicles

VinFast's has used this year's Consumer Electronics Show to unveil three new models.

Dropping in below the existing VF e35 and VF e36 SUVs – now renamed VF8 and VF9 respectively – the VF5, VF6 and VF7 will expand the electric vehicle producer's range, covering almost every segment in the EV SUV market.

No interior shots were shown off at the launch of the three models, nor were any specific details about powertrains, although it's expected a range of Level 2 autonomous capabilities will be available in all variants of the five cars.

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Alongside the unveiling of its new vehicles, VinFast announced pricing for the VF8 and VF9 – as well as offering more in-depth specifications of both models.

The VF8 will start at US$41,000 (AU$57,170), powered by dual electric motors producing up to 300kW and 640Nm, enabling it to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in just under six seconds and boasting a driving range of 510 kilometres.

The larger VF9 is underpinned by the same powertrain – although its higher weight and larger, six to seven seat capacity means it can only manage a 0-100km/h time of just over 6.5 seconds, although a seemingly larger battery pack stretches its driving range out to 680km.

Rather than sell customers their vehicles as a whole unit, VinFast offers a battery lease program which allows buyers to choose either a "Flexible" arrangement – allowing 500km a month at a fixed cost plus extra fees for longer distances travelled – or a "Fixed" plan with unlimited travel. Both of these cover maintenance costs and include a new battery once capacity falls below 70 per cent.

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As its first vehicles get delivered to customers in Vietnam, VinFast is aiming to build a battery factory in the United States, with CEO Le Thi Thu Thuy telling Reuters its list of potential sites is getting shorter.

"We will build our gigafactory in the US as well," said Thuy.

"We have narrowed down from, I think, over 50 sites to about three sites."

It's understood the manufacturer is also considering a move into Germany, currently liaising with Germany Trade and Invest to secure space for a European plant, according to Automotive News.

"The era of shipping cars around the world is over, especially since COVID-19. You must have the factory close to the market in order to win over your customers," the boss said.

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