Vietnamese automaker VinFast has unveiled the second-generation VinFast VF 8 electric sport utility vehicle, with the redesigned model set to launch first in the company’s domestic market.
The new VF 8 features a smaller overall footprint compared with the outgoing version. VinFast said the vehicle measures 4.70 metres in length, 1.87 metres in width and 1.67 metres in height, making it shorter and narrower than the previous generation while slightly taller.
The wheelbase has also been reduced by 11 centimetres to 2.84 metres.
Despite the smaller dimensions, VinFast said the redesigned model adopts a more dynamic exterior design inspired by the smaller VF 7 SUV.
At the front, the new VF 8 features a lower bonnet profile, a more pronounced nose section and a large gloss-black closed front panel. The headlamps are slimmer and incorporate three-segment daytime running lights integrated into the upper section.
The company also redesigned the lower bumper with an A-shaped functional grille intended to cool major components including the battery pack, electric motor and power electronics.
The side profile adopts sharper body lines, a more angular greenhouse design and semi-recessed door handles, while the rear section uses slim tail lamps and a gloss-black panel designed to visually widen the vehicle.
Inside the cabin, VinFast retained a minimalist layout focused on digital controls while introducing several revisions.
The new model now includes a dedicated instrument cluster, slimmer air vents, a redesigned steering wheel, a column-mounted gear selector and an updated bridge-style centre console.
VinFast reduced the size of the central infotainment display from 15.6 inches to 12.9 inches.
The company said the SUV comes equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory functionality and an eight-speaker audio system.
The VF 8 also uses a new electrical and electronic architecture designed to improve system responsiveness and software performance.
Driver assistance features include a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning and highway driving assist.
VinFast said it is targeting a five-star safety rating from ASEAN NCAP.
The second-generation VF 8 is built on a newly developed chassis platform and uses Frequency Selective Dampers on both axles to improve ride comfort and handling.
At launch, the company will offer a single front-wheel-drive configuration powered by a front-mounted electric motor producing 170 kilowatts and 330 Newton metres of torque.
The powertrain is paired with a 60.13-kilowatt-hour battery pack that supports charging from 10% to 70% in under 30 minutes.
VinFast said the vehicle offers a driving range of up to 500 kilometres under NEDC testing standards.
The automaker added that future variants aimed at European and North American markets may include all-wheel-drive configurations and longer-range battery options.
VinFast has priced the new VF 8 at 999 million Vietnamese dong, equivalent to around 32,650 euros, with pre-orders scheduled to begin on May 27.
