Asian automotive brands, including the Vietnamese company Vinfast, are making strides in Europe with their electric vehicles. At the Paris Motor Show 2022, Vinfast showcased its VF8 model, followed by the compact VF6 SUV, which competes with popular European models. Priced from €33,990, the VF6 features a 59.6 kWh battery with a range of 410 kilometers and modern amenities like a head-up display and a 12.9-inch touchscreen. It will also be launched in Germany and the Netherlands.
In recent years, Asian automotive brands have been keen to make their mark in Europe. Among the wave of Chinese manufacturers entering the market, a Vietnamese contender is also capturing attention: Vinfast. This innovative company is now setting its sights on the European landscape.
Introducing an Affordable Electric SUV
Vinfast made a significant impression at the Paris Motor Show 2022, where it unveiled a substantial portion of its electric vehicle lineup to eager French audiences. However, the arrival of its first model in French showrooms required some patience. Although the initial deliveries of the VF8 were anticipated for December of the same year, they faced delays.
Despite facing challenges, including low sales figures, the Hanoi-based brand is not backing down. It is now launching a second model, the VF6, which is a more compact SUV designed to compete with popular models like the Renault Mégane E-Tech, Peugeot e-2008, and Volkswagen ID.3.
The VF6 has already been available in Vietnam and maintains the brand’s signature design while boasting a more compact profile. With dimensions of 4.24 meters in length, 1.82 meters in width, and 1.59 meters in height, it offers ample space for up to five passengers thanks to its 2.73-meter wheelbase. The vehicle features a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, likely compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In a nod to modern design trends, the VF6 does not include a traditional instrument cluster but compensates with a head-up display projected onto the windshield. The Plus trim level offers heated and ventilated front seats, while the base model comes well-equipped with features like keyless entry and start along with a 360-degree camera. However, details regarding trunk space have yet to be disclosed.
Pricing Starts at €33,990
The Vinfast VF6 is set to enter the French market with a competitive starting price of €33,990. Unfortunately, this electric SUV does not qualify for the ecological bonus due to its Asian production. At this price point, the VF6 is powered by a front motor generating 177 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time of 10.3 seconds. For those seeking more power, the Plus version offers 204 horsepower and 310 Nm for €37,990.
Both variants are equipped with a 59.6 kWh battery, providing a maximum range of 410 kilometers according to the WLTP cycle. However, this indicates a relatively high energy consumption compared to competitors like the Renault Mégane E-Tech, which offers up to 470 km of WLTP range with a similar battery.
Charging capabilities allow for a range increase from 10 to 70% in 25 minutes, suggesting that a full charge from 10 to 80% would take around 35 minutes—slightly longer than many competitors, which typically achieve this in 25 to 30 minutes.
The top-tier trim boasts features such as dual-zone climate control, GPS navigation, a panoramic roof, and 19-inch wheels. Additionally, all versions come with a comprehensive 7-year or 160,000-kilometer warranty. As of now, the manufacturer has not announced a delivery date, but the VF6 will also be launched in Germany and the Netherlands concurrently.