Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is set to make a significant impact on the Indian EV market with the upcoming launch of its small electric car the VF3. The company's recent commencement of construction on a new EV manufacturing plant in India, with an annual capacity of 1.50 lakh units and an investment of around Rs 4,000 crore, underscores its commitment to the Indian market.
VinFast VF3: Key Features and Specifications
- Design: The VF3 boasts a distinctive and practical design with a length of under 3.2 meters and generous ground clearance making it suitable for Indian road conditions. It features a sleek closed-up grille, LED headlamps, squared-off ORVMs, LED tail lamps and cladding on bumpers.
- Dimensions: The car measures 3,190mm in length, 1,679mm in width, and 1,620mm in height, offering a spacious cabin with 550 liters of boot space.
- Interior: The VF3 can accommodate five passengers and comes equipped with a 2-spoke steering wheel, digital driver display unit, and a 10-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other features include fully foldable second-row seats, automatic climate control, cruise control and dual airbags.
- Motor Configuration and Range: The VF3 will be available in two trim levels – Eco and Plus. While specific motor details are yet to be disclosed, the car targets an impressive range of 201 kilometers on a full charge.
Market Positioning and Pricing
Positioned in the entry-level EV segment, the VF3 is expected to compete with rivals like the MG Comet and Tata Tiago, with an estimated price range of Rs 7-10 lakhs. Its compact size and zero-emission attributes make it an ideal solution for urban environments where traffic congestion and limited parking space are prevalent.
Manufacturing and Export Plans
VinFast's upcoming manufacturing plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, is set to have an annual capacity of 1,50,000 units and an investment of Rs. 4,165 crore. The plant will create 3,000-3,500 job opportunities locally and serve as a base for exporting VinFast vehicles to South Asia, the Middle East and African countries.
As VinFast expands its presence in India the VF3 represents a significant step towards sustainable and practical mobility solutions in the country's dynamic urban landscape. With its innovative electric vehicles and commitment to developing a robust EV ecosystem VinFast is poised to play a key role in India's transition towards a sustainable automotive future.