Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast has signed new dealership agreements in France and Germany, marking a strategic pivot from its direct sales model just as it prepares to close its own European showrooms and service centres.
Astrada Simva will serve as VinFast’s first authorised dealer in France, with a showroom in Aix-en-Provence slated to open in June. In Germany, Schachtschneider Automobile has been appointed as a new sales partner and will open three authorised showrooms. The announcement follows news from last week that VinFast will shutter all of its European retail locations as of May 9 and transition fully to a dealership-based model.
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The company described the agreements as “a significant milestone in VinFast’s strategy to accelerate its sales model through dealerships globally, while reaffirming the Company’s strong commitment to driving the green transition in Europe.” It comes during a turbulent period for VinFast in Europe, with approximately 90% of staff reportedly laid off as part of the sales model overhaul. Remaining employees are expected to transition to roles with the new dealership partners.
In Germany, Schachtschneider Automobile will showcase and offer test drives for the electric VF 6 and VF 8 SUVs, which are positioned in the B- and D-segments respectively. “We are proud to partner with VinFast… and are committed to contributing value to achieve mutually beneficial collaboration,” said Renzo Schachtschneider, Managing Director of the dealership. Existing partners such as Autohaus Hübsch, which already operates two showrooms, will continue operations.
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In France, the VF 6 and VF 8 will also be offered by Astrada Simva. “Bringing the VF 6 and VF 8 models to Aix-en-Provence presents a great opportunity to diversify our offerings,” said Chris Durand, Managing Director of Astrada Simva.
VinFast has not announced specific expansion targets but said it plans to grow its dealership and distributor network across France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The company said new partners will receive training and support, including access to 22 specialised technical centres in Europe and authorised service workshops like ATU in Germany, Norauto in France, and LKQ in the Netherlands.
