The Indian automotive industry has been booming, making it a hotspot for new manufacturers seeking expansion. Since 2019, India has welcomed several global players like MG Motors, Kia, Citroën, and BYD, most of which have achieved significant success in the market. With India’s sustained growth and consumers’ increasing demand for diverse automotive options, in 2025, at the Bharat Mobility Expo, we will witness another exciting arrival—VinFast, a rising star in the global automotive scene.
History
VinFast is a member of Vingroup, the largest private corporation in Vietnam. The company has a rich history in Vietnam, focusing on technology, real estate, development, retail and services ranging from healthcare to hospitality. The automotive firm VinFast started in 2017 by establishing its state-of-the-art manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam.
VinFast debuted itself in 2018 at the Paris Motor Show. Launching its first three cars in 2019: the Lux A2.0 sedan, the Lux S2.0 SUV and the Fadil for the city commute. VinFast quickly became the leading car manufacturer in Vietnam, with leading sales in all three segments. In 2021, VinFast expanded its vehicle portfolio by adding e-scooters and e-Bus to its catalogue. After tremendous success in Vietnam, VinFast launched VF 8 and VF 9 in the European and North American markets. In 2022, VinFast shuts ICE production, completing its transformation into an electric vehicle company.
VinFast VF7 and VF9
VinFast is geared up to introduce their tech-loaded electric SUV called the VF7 and VF9 in India. The VinFast VF7 is a 5-seater SUV with Eco and Plus variants. The Eco trim has a single electric motor producing 201 bhp and 310 Nm of torque. The Plus trim has dual motors with a combined output of 349 bhp and 500 Nm of torque. Both VF7 Eco and Plus variants come with a 75.3 kWh battery pack. The Eco variant has a range of 450 km, while the Plus variant has a range of 430 km.
The VinFast V9 is a 3-row SUV that offers seating for seven passengers. The V9 is also available in two trims, Eco and Plus. Both the variants of the VF9 are powered by dual electric motors producing 396 bhp and 620Nm of torque. Both variants come with a 123 kWh battery with a range of 531km for the Eco trim and 468km for the Plus trim. The VF9 has a claimed speed of 0-100 km/h in 6.63 seconds, with a top speed of 200 km/h.
Conclusion
VinFast’s entry into India marks a bold step into one of the world's most dynamic and competitive automotive markets. While the brand has proven its strength in Vietnam, Europe, and North America with its electric vehicle portfolio, the Indian market presents unique challenges. The country’s price-sensitive nature, deep loyalty towards established global brands, and evolving EV infrastructure are hurdles VinFast will have to navigate carefully.
VinFast’s journey in India is sure to be closely watched. It can adapt to the unique Indian market while maintaining its commitment to innovation and sustainability. It can become a serious player in the country’s booming EV segment. That being said, India has been a graveyard for many manufacturers, such as Ford, Fiat, Mitsubishi Motors, and Datsun, to name a few. It will be interesting to see how VinFast tackles the unique needs of the Indian market or fails to deliver and perish.
