Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is set to enter the Indian market with the VF6 and VF7 SUVs. The VF6 targets the budget segment, while the VF7 is designed for the premium category. Both vehicles are being manufactured at the Tamil Nadu plant, and their price and features are already subjects of discussion ahead of their launch.
New Delhi: VinFast, a leading EV company from Vietnam, is soon going to launch two new electric SUVs – the VF6 and VF7 – in India. Both models are currently under construction at the Thoothukudi plant in Tamil Nadu. The VF6 will be presented as a budget-friendly EV, while the VF7 will be a premium electric SUV. The company has made changes to their design according to Indian roads and has also started preparations for showrooms and a digital platform.
VF6: VinFast's Entry into the EV Segment
The VinFast VF6 will be launched in the market as a compact and entry-level SUV. This model will come with a single electric motor setup. In the Indian market, it will compete with cars like the Tata Curvv EV, Hyundai Creta EV, and Mahindra BE.06. The VF6 will be offered to customers who are looking for a budget-friendly but modern electric SUV.
According to the information that has come out about the VF6, its potential starting price could be between ₹18 to 19 lakh. This price matches the price of cars already present in this segment. If VinFast launches it below ₹20 lakh, it could create new competition in the market.
VF7: Firmly Stepping into the Premium Segment
The VinFast VF7 will be the company's flagship electric SUV. This car will come in two variants: a single-motor variant and a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant. The VF7 will be offered with a more powerful battery, better range, and premium design and interior.
The VF7 could compete with the soon-to-be-launched Tata Harrier EV, Mahindra XUV.e9, and electric SUVs from some international brands in India. It is expected that the price of the VF7 could be between ₹25 to 29 lakh. Its single-motor variant could start from around ₹25 lakh, while the top model with a dual motor could go up to ₹28 to 29 lakh.
Beginning of Showroom and Dealership Network
VinFast has already started two showrooms to mark its presence in India. The company is working on a plan to expand the dealership network across the country in the coming months. Through showrooms, the company will provide customers with facilities for test drives, information, and bookings.
In addition, VinFast is preparing to provide customers with a digital experience platform, through which tasks like car booking, service, appointments, and customer support can be completed online.
Changes According to Indian Roads
VinFast has made some special changes to its models before entering the Indian market. The VF6 and VF7 both have a ground clearance of 190mm, which will enable these vehicles to cope with Indian roads and potholes. In addition, the interior color options have also been prepared according to the preferences of Indian customers.
The VF7 is being given a large cabin space, better legroom, and premium-touch finishing, which gives this car a feeling of luxury. These changes make it clear that VinFast has designed and customized its products keeping in mind the needs of Indian customers.
Challenge in the Existing Market
VinFast is entering the Indian EV market at a time when domestic companies like Tata Motors and Mahindra are already in a b position in this segment. Foreign companies like Hyundai and MG are also rapidly expanding in the electric segment.
In such a situation, VinFast will have to make its place in the market only on the strength of advanced technology, better driving range, competitive pricing, and a b service network. The VF6 and VF7 have been designed keeping in mind two different customer segments. The VF6 will be launched with the intention of higher sales, while the VF7 will target premium and feature-rich customers.
