In a significant development for the Vietnamese electric vehicle market, VinFast, the prominent domestic electric car manufacturer, has clinched a substantial order from Sun Taxi. The order entails 3,000 units of VinFast’s latest electric car model, the VF 5 Plus, which are scheduled for successive delivery until 2025. Sun Taxi plans to employ these electric vehicles across numerous cities and provinces in Vietnam, marking a noteworthy stride towards sustainable transportation in the country.
The VF 5 Plus represents VinFast’s most compact electric model to date. Initially introduced in January 2022 alongside four other electric vehicle models, the manufacturer commenced deliveries with their two larger models, the VF 8 and VF 9, later in the same year. The initial batch of VF 5 Plus units was handed over to customers in Vietnam in April 2023, signaling the company’s commitment to enhancing eco-friendly mobility options.
Positioned as an A-segment SUV, the VF 5 Plus boasts an electric motor with a power output of 100 kW and a maximum torque of 135 Nm. The vehicle incorporates a 37.2 kWh battery, providing an estimated range of 300 kilometers based on the outdated NEDC testing standards. While the announcement and local media reports lack specific information regarding a dedicated charging infrastructure for taxi use, the introduction of these electric cars to Sun Taxi’s fleet signifies a leap towards cleaner energy in public transportation.
One striking aspect of this order lies in its scale. Reports indicate that Sun Taxi presently operates a fleet of 2,900 vehicles spanning 17 cities and provinces in Vietnam. Considering the timeframe for delivery until 2025, it is evident that not all of Sun Taxi’s existing vehicles will be retired by then, underscoring the significance of this large-scale transition to VinFast’s electric cars.
VinFast’s collaboration with Sun Taxi not only exemplifies the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions but also emphasizes the potential for local electric vehicle manufacturers to thrive in their home market. As Vietnam strives to build a greener and more efficient transportation infrastructure, initiatives like these pave the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
